Hexaxim is a sophisticated fully liquid, 6-in-1 pediatric combination vaccine. It is designed to provide comprehensive protection against six major childhood diseases in a single injection. Because it is "fully liquid," it does not require reconstitution (mixing) before use, which reduces the risk of contamination and ensures dose accuracy during administration.
Hexaxim is indicated for primary and booster vaccination in infants and toddlers. It provides highly effective protection against:
Diphtheria: A serious bacterial infection that affects the throat and upper airways.
Tetanus (Lockjaw): A disease caused by bacteria in soil that enters the body through wounds.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough): A highly contagious respiratory disease.
Hepatitis B: A viral infection that attacks the liver.
Poliomyelitis (Polio): A virus that can lead to irreversible paralysis.
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): A bacterium that causes meningitis and severe pneumonia.
The vaccination schedule for Hexaxim is determined by national immunization programs (such as NPI in Nigeria) or your pediatrician. Typical schedules include:
Primary Series: Three doses given at intervals of at least four weeks (e.g., at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age).
Booster Dose: A booster dose is often recommended during the second year of life (between 15 to 18 months).
Note: If a child has received a dose of Hepatitis B vaccine at birth, Hexaxim can still be used for the subsequent doses in the schedule.
As a critical pediatric procedure, Hexaxim is handled by healthcare professionals:
Route: Administered via intramuscular injection, typically into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh (the upper outer part of the thigh muscle).
Cold Chain: Must be kept refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C. It must never be frozen, as freezing destroys the vaccine's potency.
Observation: Following the injection, infants should be observed for approximately 15 minutes for any immediate reactions.
Hexaxim contains purified components of the viruses and bacteria it protects against:
Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids.
Acellular Pertussis Antigens: (Standard for "painless" vaccines, causing fewer fevers than older versions).
Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV).
Recombinant Hepatitis B Surface Antigen.
Hib Polysaccharide: Conjugated to a protein to ensure long-lasting immunity.
Indicated For: Infants from the age of 6 weeks up to 24 months.
Precautions: If the child is suffering from a moderate to severe fever or acute illness, the vaccination should be postponed until they recover.
Contraindications: Not for infants with a known allergy to any component of the vaccine or those who experienced a severe reaction to a previous dose of a similar vaccine.
Q: Is Hexaxim a "painless" vaccine?
A: Hexaxim uses acellular pertussis (aP) rather than whole-cell pertussis. This often results in significantly fewer side effects like high fever, severe swelling, or excessive crying, making it much more comfortable for the baby.
Q: Can it be given at the same time as the Rotavirus or Pneumococcal vaccines?
A: Yes. Hexaxim can generally be administered at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines, provided they are injected at different body sites.
Q: What are the common side effects?
A: Most common reactions are mild and include redness or slight swelling at the injection site, a mild fever, or irritability. These usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
You can access Hexaxim through Sanlive Pharmacy and Stores. We maintain world-class cold chain integrity to ensure that every dose remains potent and safe. Our professional clinical environment in Lagos and Abuja is designed to provide a smooth and supportive experience for both parents and infants.
Sanlive Pharmacy is committed to supporting Nigeria's immunization goals. We provide expert consultations for parents to help you stay on track with your child's developmental health and vaccination schedule.
Contact Sanlive Pharmacy today to schedule your child's 6-in-1 vaccination.
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