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Human immunoglobulin

Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG)

Brand names: Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin BP

Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) provides immediate, short-term passive immunity against hepatitis B and is used for post-exposure prophylaxis after needlestick or sexual exposure and in newborns of hepatitis B-positive mothers.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It supplies preformed human anti-hepatitis B surface antibodies that bind and neutralise circulating virus, giving temporary protection until active immunity develops.

Prescribing in practice

  • It must be given as soon as possible after exposure because efficacy falls rapidly with delay, and it should be administered alongside, but at a separate injection site from, active hepatitis B vaccine.
  • As a human plasma-derived product it carries the theoretical residual risk of transmissible agents, and IgA-deficient patients may react to trace IgA.
  • Neonatal post-exposure prophylaxis requires HBIG combined with timely active vaccination per the immunisation schedule.

Monitoring

Observe for acute hypersensitivity after administration; ongoing monitoring relates to completion of the accompanying active vaccination course.

Counselling the patient

  • This injection gives rapid but temporary protection and works best when given promptly after exposure.
  • You will also need the hepatitis B vaccine course for lasting protection.
  • Report any rash, breathlessness or other reaction after the injection.

Evidence & guidelines

HBIG use for post-exposure prophylaxis and in infants of infected mothers follows the UK immunisation guidance (Green Book).

Reference: UK Green Book; PHE post-exposure guidance; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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