Pentacel Vaccine

Pentacel is a combination pediatric vaccine that protects against five serious diseases in a single injection: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, and invasive disease caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). By combining DTaP, IPV, and Hib components, it reduces the number of separate shots an infant receives during the primary immunization series — a meaningful benefit for both the child and the practice managing the schedule.

Pentacel is typically administered as a four-dose series at 2, 4, 6, and 15–18 months of age, following the recommended pediatric immunization schedule. Because it is a lyophilized Hib component reconstituted with a liquid DTaP-IPV component at the point of care, proper storage and handling are essential. The vaccine requires refrigeration and should never be frozen; maintaining an unbroken cold chain protects potency and keeps each dose compliant with manufacturer and CDC guidance.

For pediatric offices, family practices, and immunization clinics, combination vaccines like Pentacel help streamline visits, improve series completion rates, and simplify inventory compared with stocking each antigen separately. Clinicians should always confirm the current package insert for reconstitution steps, dosing intervals, and contraindications before administration, and record lot numbers per VAERS and state registry requirements.

Honest Medical supports practices with a range of immunization supplies. When placing an order, review your refrigeration capacity and turnover so refrigerated biologics arrive and are used within their stability window. Explore related supplies in our broader Vaccines category to round out your pediatric immunization program.