Age Limitations for Pentacel and Vaxelis
Yes, both Pentacel and Vaxelis are only licensed for use through age 4 years (specifically up to 4 years, 364 days), and cannot be administered on or after the fifth birthday. 1
Pentacel Age Restrictions
- Pentacel is FDA-licensed for use as a 4-dose series in children aged 6 weeks through 4 years. 1
- The maximum age for any dose is 4 years, 364 days—meaning you cannot administer Pentacel on or after the child's fifth birthday. 1
- This age restriction exists because Pentacel contains the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) component, which is not indicated beyond age 4 years in healthy children. 1
Vaxelis Age Restrictions
- Vaxelis is licensed for use in children aged 6 weeks through 4 years, with the same maximum age cutoff of 4 years, 364 days. 1
- Like Pentacel, Vaxelis cannot be administered on or after the fifth birthday. 1
- Vaxelis contains six components (DTaP-IPV-Hib-HepB), and the Hib component drives this age limitation. 1
What to Use for Children Age 4-6 Years
For children aged 4-6 years who need their fifth DTaP dose and fourth IPV dose, you must use different vaccines:
- Kinrix (DTaP-IPV) is specifically licensed for the fifth DTaP dose and fourth IPV dose in children aged 4-6 years. 1
- Quadracel (DTaP-IPV) is licensed for the fifth DTaP dose and fourth or fifth IPV dose in children aged 4-6 years who previously received Pentacel and/or Daptacel. 1
- These combination vaccines are preferred at this age to reduce the number of injections. 2
Critical Clinical Caveat
The age restriction is absolute—do not attempt to use Pentacel or Vaxelis in a child who has reached their fifth birthday, even if they are behind on their vaccination schedule. 1 Instead, use age-appropriate DTaP and IPV vaccines separately or in combination products licensed for older children. 2