GSK continues to experience unusually high demand for our monovalent hepatitis B vaccine, Engerix B, while another vaccine manufacturer is out of stock. We understand this situation likely to continue until the end of 2010.

This situation continues to put pressure on GSK's supply chain. However, by carefully managing stock GSK is able to continue to supply customers with hepatitis B vaccine.

GSK is able to meet all hospital demand and fulfil standing orders. Supply to customers that do not have standing orders with GSK is being limited to ensure continued supply to the UK market.

Customers should exercise their clinical judgement when treating patients needing the vaccine; however the following alternatives could be considered:

If the primary course has been initiated and time allows, it is recommended the vaccine should be administered using the 0, 1, 6 month schedule¹ rather than the 0, 1, 2, 12¹ month schedule or the accelerated schedule: 0, 7, 21 days with a 12 month booster¹.

If the patient is also at risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus, a combined hepatitis A/hepatitis B vaccine may be considered as a substitute for the hepatitis B vaccination.

If customers have any questions, please call GSK directly on 0808 100 9997