Dosage and Administration
Dosage
The current FDA-licensed schedule calls for five doses to be administered intramuscularly at 0, 1, 6, 12, and 18 months. Annual booster doses of the vaccine are recommended to sustain ongoing protection.
Administration
BioThrax is to be administered intramuscularly. Select a different injection site for each sequential injection of this vaccine. Do not mix with any other product in the syringe. Individuals should not be considered protected until they have received the full series of vaccinations. Do not inject BioThrax intravenously or intradermally.
When medically indicated, such as in persons with coagulation disorders or receiving medications that affect coagulation (e.g. warfarin), BioThrax may be administered by the subcutaneous route.
Use a separate 1- or 1½ -inch 23- or 25-gauge sterile needle and syringe for each patient to avoid transmission of viral hepatitis and other infectious agents.
Shake the bottle thoroughly to ensure that the suspension is homogeneous during withdrawal. Inspect visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. If the product appears discolored or has visible particulate matter, DISCARD THE VIAL.
