anthrax vaccine (absorbed)

REMS

Provides active immunization against Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) in patients 18–65 yr who have come in contact with animal products originating in anthrax endemic areas and that may be contaminated with anthrax spores, or those at high risk of exposure to anthrax spores (veterinarians, laboratory workers, and others whose work involves handling potentially contaminated animals or materials). Routine immunization is not recommended. Safety and efficacy in the post-exposure setting has not been established.

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

History of anaphylactic or anaphylactic-like reaction following previous anthrax vaccination;
Hypersensitivity to any of the vaccine components;
History of Guillain-Barré syndrome (unless potential benefits outweigh risks);
OB: Do not use unless potential benefits outweigh risks.

Use Cautiously in:

History of anthrax disease (↑ risk of severe local adverse reactions);
Moderate to severe illness (postpone until recovery);
Pre-existing immunodeficiency or immunosuppressive therapies (may result in inadequate response; defer vaccination for 3 mo following completion of treatment);
Latex sensitivity (vial stopper contains dry natural rubber);
Lactation: Safety not established.

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

GI: nausea

Local: local reactions

MS: myalgia

Neuro: headache

Misc: malaise, ANAPHYLAXISALLERGIC REACTIONS INCLUDING , fever

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Concurrent immunosuppressants, antineoplastics, and radiation therapy may result in inadequate response (defer vaccination for 3 mo following completion of treatment).

Availability ⬆ ⬇

Suspension for intramuscular injection: In 5-mL multidose vials

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

IM (Adults 18–65 yr): 0.5 mL at 0 and 4 weeks, then at 6, 12, and 18 mo. (for total of 5 doses). Single booster dose of 0.5 mL should then be given annually for those who remain at risk.

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Action ⬆ ⬇

Contains the protective antigen (PA); administration produces antibodies to PA, which neutralizes the toxins produced by B. anthracis.

Therapeutic effects:

Some degree of protection against infection by B. anthracis with decreased sequelae.

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: vaccines/immunizing agents

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: Absorption follows intramuscular administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Unknown.

Half-Life: Unknown.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(antibody production)

ROUTE	ONSET	PEAK	DURATION
Intramuscular	rapid	unknown	1 yr

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Instruct patient when to get each vaccination. Emphasize the importance of completing the series and maintaining current vaccinations. Patients should not be considered protected until they have received the full series of vaccinations.
Advise patient to report adverse reactions. Most common local adverse reactions are tenderness, erythema, SUBQ nodule, induration, warmth, local pruritus, arm motion limitation, and edema.

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Indications ⬇