IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Table of Contents
- Uses and How to Use
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Medication Interactions
- Dosage and Storage
- Medication Images
Pronounced: (AN-thrax vak-SEEN)
BioThrax IM Uses
This medication is used to help prevent serious, sometimes fatal, infections caused by a certain bacteria (Bacillus anthracis) in high-risk people (such as military personnel, laboratory workers who handle the bacteria Bacillus anthracis).
This vaccine contains parts from Bacillus anthracis. It works by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the bacteria.
How To Use BioThrax IM
Read the Vaccine Information Statement available from your health care provider before receiving the vaccine. If you have any questions, consult your health care provider.
This vaccine is given by injection into a muscle by a health care professional. It is usually given as a series of 5 doses (1, 6, 12, and 18 months after the first dose). This vaccine may also be given under the skin for certain people (such as people with clotting disorders, people taking "blood thinners") although this may increase the risk of side effects.
Follow the dosing schedule closely for the vaccine to be most effective. To help you remember, mark your calendar to keep track of when to receive your next dose.
You will need a yearly booster vaccine if you still remain at risk for anthrax. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Information last revised May 2010
Copyright(c) 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
