How do you reconstitute the rabies vaccine powder?

How to Reconstitute Rabies Vaccine

To reconstitute rabies vaccine powder, use the accompanying sterile diluent to reconstitute the lyophilized vaccine in the original vial to a final volume of 1.0 mL just before administration. 1

Step-by-Step Reconstitution Process

For Human Diploid Cell Vaccine (HDCV) for Intramuscular Use:

• Take the single-dose vial containing lyophilized vaccine and the accompanying diluent 1
• Inspect both the vaccine vial and diluent for any particulate matter or discoloration 2
• Remove the protective caps from both the vaccine vial and diluent vial 1
• Using aseptic technique, draw the entire contents of the diluent vial into a sterile syringe 1, 2
• Inject the diluent into the vial containing the lyophilized vaccine powder 1
• Gently swirl or rotate the vial to thoroughly dissolve the powder until a uniform suspension is achieved 2
• The reconstituted vaccine should be used immediately after preparation 2

For Human Diploid Cell Vaccine (HDCV) for Intradermal Use (if applicable):

• The single-dose syringe containing lyophilized vaccine is reconstituted in the syringe to a final volume of 0.1 mL just before administration 1
• Follow manufacturer's specific instructions for this formulation 1

For Purified Chick Embryo Cell Vaccine (PCEC):

• PCEC is available in a single-dose vial containing lyophilized vaccine 1
• Reconstitute in the vial with the accompanying sterile diluent to a final volume of 1.0 mL just before administration 1
• Follow the same general steps as for HDCV 2

Important Considerations

• The reconstituted vaccine must be used immediately after preparation and should not be stored 2
• Do not use the vaccine if the lyophilized powder or diluent appears discolored or contains particulate matter 2
• Use only the diluent supplied by the manufacturer 1, 2
• Administer the full 1.0 mL dose intramuscularly in the deltoid area for adults 2
• Never administer the vaccine intradermally unless specifically using the HDCV formulation approved for this route 1
• Do not mix different vaccine products during a vaccination series 1, 2

Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not reconstitute the vaccine until immediately before administration 2
• Do not store reconstituted vaccine for later use as it contains no preservatives 2
• Do not use a different diluent than the one provided by the manufacturer 2
• Avoid contamination during the reconstitution process 3
• Do not shake the vial vigorously as this may cause foaming and potentially denature the vaccine components 2

Following these steps precisely will ensure proper reconstitution of the rabies vaccine for safe and effective administration 1, 2.