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anthrax antigen

J07AC01

Forms & Strengths

Suspension for intramuscular injection, 0.5 mL vial
Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed (AVA), sterile liquid containing protective antigen

Adult Dosing

Primary series: 0.5 mL IM at 0, 1, and 6 months, followed by booster doses at 12 and 18 months, then annually
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): 0.5 mL subcutaneously at 0, 2, and 4 weeks combined with recommended antimicrobial therapy

Pediatric Dosing

Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients for routine pre-exposure prophylaxis
Post-exposure prophylaxis: Use authorized under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) or specific public health guidance based on risk-benefit assessment

Indications

Pre-exposure prophylaxis of anthrax disease in adults at high risk of exposure (e.g., certain laboratory workers, military personnel)
Post-exposure prophylaxis of anthrax disease following suspected or confirmed Bacillus anthracis exposure, in conjunction with antibacterials

Mechanism of Action

Induces active immunity against Bacillus anthracis protective antigen (PA)
Stimulates production of neutralizing antibodies that inhibit the binding of lethal factor and edema factor to cell surfaces

Contraindications

History of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of anthrax vaccine or any vaccine component

Adverse Reactions

Injection site reactions: tenderness, pain, erythema, edema, and pruritus
Systemic reactions: muscle aches, headache, fatigue, fever, and nausea
Rare: severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis

Drug Interactions

Immunosuppressive therapies: may reduce the immune response to the vaccine
Other vaccines: administer concurrently at different injection sites if necessary, though separate timing is often preferred to monitor adverse events

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use