Pentacel

Before taking this medicine

Pentacel must not be given to children who have: • Had a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, after a previous dose of Pentacel, to any of its ingredients, or after another vaccine containing diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, inactivated poliovirus or Haemophilus influenzae type b. • Developed encephalopathy (a serious disorder affecting brain function) within 7 days after a pertussis-containing vaccine, with no other identifiable cause. • A progressive neurological disorder, unless a treatment plan has been established and the condition has stabilised. The prescriber should carefully weigh the benefits and risks if a previous pertussis-containing vaccine was followed by a fever of at least 40.5°C (105°F), an episode of limpness and reduced responsiveness, or persistent, inconsolable crying lasting at least 3 hours within 48 hours of vaccination, or seizures within 3 days. Guillain-Barré syndrome occurring within 6 weeks after a previous tetanus-containing vaccine may indicate an increased risk of this condition after Pentacel. Tell the prescriber about any previous seizures. Pauses in breathing have been observed after intramuscular vaccination in some infants born prematurely. For these infants, vaccination timing should be based on their medical condition and the potential benefits and risks.