About b c g vaccine
Live attenuated tuberculosis vaccine
Used for
- Bladder cancer treatment, given directly into the bladder
- Tuberculosis prevention in people at increased risk
Usual adult dose
Bladder cancer: typically 50–100 mg intravesically weekly for six weeks, then maintenance courses. Tuberculosis prevention: one intradermal dose, usually 0.1 mL.
Usual dose in children
Tuberculosis prevention: one intradermal dose, usually 0.05 mL for infants under one year and 0.1 mL for older children.
Common side effects
- Bladder irritation, frequent urination, or painful urination
- Fever, fatigue, or flu-like symptoms
- Blood in urine
- Rare disseminated BCG infection
Important warnings
- Live vaccine; avoid in severe immune deficiency or immunosuppressive treatment
- Bladder treatment is not given by injection into a vein or muscle
- Do not use during active tuberculosis or untreated urinary infection
- Seek urgent assessment for persistent fever or signs of systemic infection
Pregnancy
Tuberculosis vaccination is generally avoided during pregnancy unless exposure risk is substantial. Bladder treatment is avoided.
Breastfeeding
Tuberculosis vaccination is generally compatible with breastfeeding. Safety of bladder treatment is not established; it is usually avoided.
Interactions
- Immunosuppressants and corticosteroids may reduce response and increase infection risk
- Antituberculosis antibiotics can reduce BCG activity
- Live vaccines may interfere with other live vaccines
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.