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Drug interactions

Hepatitis b immune globulin + Varicella virus vaccine live

Severity: Minor

Hepatitis b immune globulin and Varicella virus vaccine live: minor interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Passive antibody from HBIG could interfere with live varicella vaccine replication and reduce immunogenicity. Standard HBIG preparations contain little varicella antibody, so the effect is expected to be small.

What this interaction means in plain words

Hepatitis b immune globulin and Varicella virus vaccine live have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Theoretical neutralization of live vaccine virus by passively acquired antibody.

What to do

Routine delay is generally not required for HBIG. Consider checking varicella serology or revaccinating if immunity is uncertain.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
  • Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Hepatitis b immune globulin with Varicella virus vaccine live?

MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Hepatitis b immune globulin and Varicella virus vaccine live have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Passive antibody from HBIG could interfere with live varicella vaccine replication and reduce immunogenicity. Standard HBIG preparations contain little varicella antibody, so the effect is expected to be small.

How serious is the interaction between Hepatitis b immune globulin and Varicella virus vaccine live?

MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Routine delay is generally not required for HBIG. Consider checking varicella serology or revaccinating if immunity is uncertain.

What other medicines interact with Hepatitis b immune globulin?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Hepatitis b immune globulin with, for example, Efgartigimod / hyaluronidase sc, Efgartigimod alfa, Measles mumps and rubella vaccine. The full list is on the Hepatitis b immune globulin page.

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