Adults with HIV are recommended to receive 4 larger-than-usual doses of hepatitis B vaccine

Adults with HIV are recommended to receive larger-than-usual doses of hepatitis B vaccine. They should receive 2 injections (1 in each arm) of the standard adult dose (using Engerix-B) on each occasion at 0, 1, 2 and 6 months. Limited studies in adults with HIV have revealed an improved and accelerated serological response to a schedule that consists of 4 double doses.^6,7

Levels of antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen should be checked after the vaccination course. See Serological testing after hepatitis B vaccination.

See also Vaccination for people who are immunocompromised.