Abhayrab Injection (Rabies vaccine, Human) | Used for Rabies Prevention After Animal Bite
Abhayrab Injection (Rabies Vaccine, Human) is a sterile inactivated rabies vaccine used for both pre-exposure prophylaxis (prevention) and post-exposure prophylaxis (treatment) against rabies infection. It works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce protective antibodies against the rabies virus, providing active immunity.
Product Overview
Abhayrab Injection is a highly purified anti-rabies vaccine (PVRV) used for the effective prevention of rabies in both children and adults. It contains inactivated Rabies Virus (L. Pasteur 2061/Vero strain), which stimulates the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against the deadly rabies virus. This prophylactic vaccine is a critical medical intervention following exposure to a potentially rabid animal, providing life-saving immunological protection.
Product Composition
- Inactivated Rabies Virus: Produced in Vero cells (Active Ingredient)
- Potency: ≥ 2.5 IU per dose (0.5 ml)
- Stabilizers: Maltose and Human Serum Albumin
- Antibiotics: Trace amounts of Neomycin, Kanamycin, or Polymyxin B may be present from the manufacturing process.
- Diluent: Sterile Water for Injection
Product Specification
| Feature | Details |
| Active Molecule | Purified Vero Cell Rabies Vaccine (PVRV) |
| Therapeutic Class | Vaccine / Immunizing Agent |
| Format | Lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder with diluent |
| Dose Volume | 0.5 ml after reconstitution |
| Route | Intramuscular (IM) or Intradermal (ID) |
Mechanism of Action
- Acts as an active immunizing agent by introducing inactivated (killed) rabies virus particles into the body.
- Triggers the immune response to identify the viral proteins and produce specific neutralizing antibodies.
- Creates a "memory" in the immune system, allowing it to recognize and destroy the live rabies virus if it enters the system through an animal bite or scratch.
- When used in a post-exposure setting, it works to build immunity faster than the virus can reach the central nervous system.
Key Benefits
- Life-Saving Protection: Provides nearly 100% effectiveness in preventing rabies when administered promptly and correctly according to WHO guidelines.
- High Purity: The Vero cell technology ensures a highly purified vaccine with a low risk of neurological complications compared to older nervous-tissue vaccines.
- Versatile Dosing: Can be administered via different routes (IM or ID) based on clinical requirements and available medical resources.
- Wide Age Range: Safe and effective for administration to infants, children, and adults, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Universal Compatibility: Follows the standard Essen or Zagreb regimens, making it compatible with international healthcare protocols for rabies prevention.
Precautions
| Condition or Situation | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Animal bite or exposure | Start vaccination as soon as possible after exposure |
| Allergic history | Inform doctor if any vaccine allergies exist |
| Fever or infection | Vaccination may be postponed in severe illness cases |
| Pregnancy | Can be used if clearly needed under medical advice |
| Breastfeeding | Generally considered safe under supervision |
| Immunocompromised patients | May require adjusted vaccination schedule |
| Bleeding disorders | Use with caution due to injection site bleeding risk |
| Concurrent vaccines | Inform healthcare provider about other vaccines being taken |
| Alcohol use | No direct interaction, but avoid during treatment period if possible |
| Missed doses | Complete full schedule without skipping doses |
Important Safety Information
- Complete the full rabies vaccination schedule without interruption
- Wash and clean the wound immediately before vaccination if applicable
- Do not delay medical attention after an animal bite or scratch
- Follow all doses strictly as advised by healthcare provider
- Report any severe allergic reactions immediately after injection
- Keep all follow-up appointments for full protection against rabies
Usage
Abhayrab Injection is a critical immunizing agent used to prevent the onset of rabies, a fatal viral infection. To ensure full viral protection, the vaccine must be administered according to a strict chronological schedule. Whether used for immediate protection after a bite or as a preventive measure, completing the full series is essential.
Usage Dosage and Administration
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Schedule
| Dose Number | Timing of Injection | Administration Site |
| 1st Dose | Day 0 (As soon as possible after exposure) | Deltoid muscle (Upper arm) |
| 2nd Dose | Day 3 | Deltoid muscle |
| 3rd Dose | Day 7 | Deltoid muscle |
| 4th Dose | Day 14 | Deltoid muscle |
| 5th Dose | Day 28 (Optional based on physician advice) | Deltoid muscle |
Administration Steps
Reconstitution: The lyophilized vaccine powder must be completely dissolved using the provided sterile diluent and shaken gently before use.
Injection Route: Administered via Intramuscular (IM) injection. In adults, the deltoid region is preferred; in young children, the anterolateral thigh is used. It must never be injected into the gluteal (buttock) region.
Immediate Action: For post-exposure cases, the first dose should be given immediately. Any delay increases the risk of the virus reaching the nervous system.
Wound Care: Before vaccination, the bite wound should be thoroughly flushed with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes to reduce the viral load.
Storage Integrity: The Abhayrab vial must be kept in a cold chain (2°C to 8°C). If the vaccine has been frozen, it must be discarded.
No Interference: Do not inject Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) into the same anatomical site as the vaccine; use the opposite limb if both are required.
Uses
Post-Exposure Vaccination: Used to prevent rabies in individuals who have been bitten, scratched, or licked on broken skin by a suspected rabid animal (dogs, cats, bats, etc.).
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Administered as a preventive measure for high-risk individuals, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, wildlife researchers, and travelers to endemic areas.
Booster Immunization: Used for individuals who have previously been vaccinated but have experienced a new potential rabies exposure.
Universal Rabies Prevention: Effective against all known strains of the rabies virus, providing a reliable immune response across all age groups.
Occupational Safety: Essential for laboratory workers handling live rabies virus cultures to ensure continuous antibody protection.
FAQs
Q: What is Abhayrab Injection used for?
A: Abhayrab Injection is used for both pre-exposure prophylaxis (prevention) in individuals at high risk of rabies exposure, and post-exposure prophylaxis (treatment) following a potential rabies exposure such as an animal bite or scratch.
Q: How does Abhayrab Injection work?
A: Abhayrab contains an inactivated rabies virus that stimulates the body's immune system to produce protective antibodies against the rabies virus. These antibodies provide active immunity to prevent the development of rabies infection.
Q: Who should receive Abhayrab Injection for pre-exposure prophylaxis?
A: Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for individuals at high risk of rabies exposure such as veterinarians, animal handlers, laboratory workers, travellers visiting rabies-endemic areas, and people living in or near areas with high rabies prevalence.
Q: What is the pre-exposure vaccination schedule for Abhayrab Injection?
A: The standard pre-exposure schedule consists of 3 doses given on Day 0, Day 7, and Day 21 or Day 28. Booster doses may be recommended periodically based on antibody levels as advised by your doctor.
Q: What is the post-exposure vaccination schedule for Abhayrab Injection?
A: The standard post-exposure schedule consists of 5 doses given on Day 0, Day 3, Day 7, Day 14, and Day 28. In some cases, Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) may also be administered alongside the first dose as directed by your doctor.
Q: What should I do immediately after an animal bite before receiving Abhayrab Injection?
A: Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then apply an antiseptic such as povidone-iodine. Seek medical attention as soon as possible to begin post-exposure prophylaxis without delay.
Q: How is Abhayrab Injection administered?
A: Abhayrab Injection is administered intramuscularly (IM) into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm in adults, or into the anterolateral thigh in young children. It should always be administered by a trained healthcare professional.
Q: What are the common side effects of Abhayrab Injection?
A: Common side effects include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, as well as headache, dizziness, nausea, and mild fever. These are usually mild and resolve on their own. Consult your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.
Q: Can pregnant or breastfeeding women receive Abhayrab Injection?
A: Yes. In cases of potential rabies exposure, post-exposure prophylaxis with Abhayrab Injection is recommended regardless of pregnancy or breastfeeding status, as the risk of rabies infection outweighs any potential risk of the vaccine. Consult your doctor for guidance.
Q: Can Abhayrab Injection be given to children?
A: Yes. Abhayrab Injection can be administered to children following the same vaccination schedule as adults, with the injection site adjusted to the anterolateral thigh for young children.
| Manufacturer | : | A. Menarini India Pvt Ltdine HCL) |
| Trade Name | : | Imovax Rabies, c |
| Generic Search | : | Rabies vaccine |
| Strength | : | 2.5 iu |








