Frequently Asked Questions

Reconstituting Pentacel vaccine

Reconstitution is quick and easy1

To reconstitute Pentacel vaccine, simply combine the DTaP-IPV and Hib components.1

It takes just a few seconds to reconstitute Pentacel vaccine, which provides protection and comparable immunogenicity to DAPTACEL, ActHIB, and IPOL vaccines, simplifies the immunization schedule, and demonstrates proven safety.1-3,8-10

Pentacel vaccine reconstitution

Image of first step: Combine the DTaP-IPV and Hib components. Gently shake the vial of the liquid DTaP-IPV component.

Gently shake the vial of the liquid DTaP-IPV component

Image of second step: Insert the needle, invert the vial, and withdraw the entire contents of liquid DTaP-IPV

Insert the needle, invert the vial, and withdraw the entire contents of liquid DTaP-IPV

Image of third step: Insert the needle into the stopper of the vial of the lyophilized Hib powder and inject the entire liquid contents

Insert the needle into the stopper of the vial of the lyophilized Hib powder and inject the entire liquid contents

Image of fourth step: Gently swirl the vial with the needle inserted to reconstitute Pentacel vaccine-a quick swirl is all that is needed

Gently swirl the vial with the needle inserted to reconstitute Pentacel vaccine—a quick swirl is all that is needed

Image of fifth step: Invert the vial, position the needle bevel within the longer channel as shown, and withdraw 0.5 mL for administration

Invert the vial, position the needle bevel within the longer channel as shown, and withdraw 0.5 mL for administration

Pentacel vaccine should be used immediately after reconstitution. In infants younger than 1 year, the anterolateral aspect of the thigh provides the largest muscle and is the preferred site of injection. In older children, the deltoid muscle is usually large enough for injection. The vaccine should not be injected into the gluteal area or areas where there may be a major nerve trunk. Do not administer Pentacel vaccine intravenously or subcutaneously.1

Indication
Pentacel vaccine is indicated for active immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and invasive disease due to Haemophilus influenzae type b. Pentacel vaccine is approved for use as a 4-dose series in children 6 weeks through 4 years of age (prior to fifth birthday).


Safety Information
The most common local and systemic adverse reactions to Pentacel vaccine include injection site redness, swelling, and tenderness; fever, fussiness, and crying. Other adverse reactions may occur. Known systemic hypersensitivity reaction to any component of Pentacel vaccine or a life-threatening reaction after previous administration of the vaccine or a vaccine containing the same substances are contraindications to vaccination.

The decision to give Pentacel vaccine should be based on the potential benefits and risks; if Guillain-Barré syndrome has occurred within 6 weeks of receipt of a prior vaccine containing tetanus toxoid; or if adverse events have occurred in temporal relation to receipt of pertussis-containing vaccine. Encephalopathy within 7 days of administration of a previous dose of a pertussis-containing vaccine or a progressive neurologic disorder is a contraindication. Vaccination with Pentacel vaccine may not protect all individuals.

Before administering Pentacel vaccine, please see the full Prescribing Information.

Pentacel vaccine is manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur Limited and Sanofi Pasteur SA and distributed by Sanofi Pasteur Inc.

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