The immunogenicity and safety of GSK’s recombinant hepatitis B vaccine in adults: a systematic review of 30 years of experience

Abstract

<p><b>Introduction</b>: <i>Engerix</i> B (<i>GSK HepB</i>, GSK, Belgium) was the first recombinant hepatitis B virus vaccine to be licensed, and marked its 30^th anniversary in 2016. Vaccination of adult populations against HBV is usually implemented on a risk-based approach with varying degrees of success. Confirmation of ongoing vaccine effectiveness requires monitoring the performance of HBV immunization as reported in individual studies, using systematic methods.</p> <p><b>Areas covered</b>: We conducted a systematic review of the literature to summarize 30 years of immunogenicity and safety data for <i>GSK HepB</i> in adult populations.</p> <p><b>Expert commentary</b>: Primary 3-dose vaccination of healthy individuals is generally associated with seroprotection rates of 90% or more, although seroprotection decreases with older age. Accelerated 0, 1, 2-month or 0, 7 and 21-day schedules require the recommended booster dose to achieve similar rates of seroprotection. Lower rates of seroprotection were also observed in adults with underlying chronic disease and with a weakened immune system. <i>GSK HepB</i> had a clinically acceptable safety profile in all of the populations studied, including individuals with underlying co-morbidities and immunosuppression. <i>GSK HepB</i> will continue to contribute to global HBV control for the foreseeable future. Further investigation is needed into how to optimize seroprotection in less immune-competent groups.</p