Hexasil vs EasySix: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Popular Vaccines

Vaccination is an essential component of child healthcare, and parents often face choices between different brands of combination vaccines. In India, two widely used vaccines for protecting against six serious childhood diseases are Hexasil (produced by the Serum Institute of India) and EasySix (produced by Panacea Biotec). Both vaccines protect against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, polio, and Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B), but there are key differences in terms of cost, formulation, and clinical trial data. This article compares Hexasil and EasySix across various factors to help you make an informed decision.

1. Efficacy

Hexasil (Serum Institute of India): Offers over 95% efficacy against all six targeted diseases. This vaccine has been shown to provide a high level of protection for children.

EasySix (Panacea Biotec): Similarly, offers over 95% efficacy and has been shown to be highly effective in preventing the same six diseases.

Key Takeaway: Both Hexasil and EasySix have similar efficacy, providing comparable protection for infants.

2. Composition and Formulation

Hexasil:

• Pertussis component: Whole-cell pertussis (wP), known for causing more local reactions such as mild fever or pain at the injection site.
• Requires reconstitution before administration (mixing components before injection).

EasySix:

• Pertussis component: Whole-cell pertussis (wP), like Hexasil, and may cause similar reactions.
• Also requires reconstitution before administration.

Key Takeaway: Both vaccines use whole-cell pertussis and require reconstitution before administration. However, whole-cell pertussis vaccines are often associated with more noticeable side effects like fever or pain.

3. Age of Administration and Dosage Schedule

Both Hexasil and EasySix follow the same dosage schedule recommended by pediatricians:

• First dose at 6 weeks of age.
• Follow-up doses at 10 and 14 weeks.

Key Takeaway: There is no difference in the age of administration or the dosage schedule between Hexasil and EasySix.

4. Side Effects

• Hexasil: As a whole-cell pertussis vaccine, Hexasil may lead to higher rates of mild side effects such as fever, swelling, and pain at the injection site compared to acellular vaccines.
• EasySix: Similarly, as a whole-cell vaccine, EasySix may cause similar local reactions and side effects.

Key Takeaway: Both vaccines are likely to cause mild side effects due to their whole-cell pertussis components, which are common but generally manageable.

5. Cost

• Hexasil: Priced between ₹1,800 and ₹2,200 per dose, making it an affordable option.
• EasySix: Costlier than Hexasil, ranging between ₹2,500 and ₹3,000 per dose.

Key Takeaway: EasySix is notably more expensive than Hexasil. For families seeking a more cost-effective option, Hexasil may be preferable.

6. Global Usage and Availability

• Hexasil: Primarily used within India. While highly regarded in domestic markets, its usage outside India is limited.
• EasySix: Also predominantly used within India and has limited global presence.

Key Takeaway: Both vaccines are primarily utilized in India, with limited availability in international markets.

7. Years on the Market

• Hexasil: Available in India for around 8 to 10 years, providing long-standing protection to children.
• EasySix: A newer entrant, available for around 6 years.

Key Takeaway: Hexasil has been available for a slightly longer period, potentially offering more extensive post-market data on safety and efficacy.

8. WHO Pre-Qualification

• Hexasil: Not WHO pre-qualified.
• EasySix: Also not WHO pre-qualified.

Key Takeaway: Neither vaccine has received WHO pre-qualification, meaning they are primarily used in India and have not gone through WHO’s rigorous global certification process.

9. Efficacy and Immunogenicity Trials in India

Hexasil (Serum Institute of India):

• Multiple trials have demonstrated that Hexasil is highly immunogenic, eliciting strong antibody responses in infants. Clinical trials in India support its effectiveness in generating a robust immune response to the diseases it targets.

EasySix (Panacea Biotec):

• Similarly, EasySix has undergone clinical trials in India, demonstrating strong immunogenicity and antibody production post-vaccination. Trials have shown it to be comparable in efficacy to other vaccines in its class.

Key Takeaway: Both Hexasil and EasySix have undergone rigorous immunogenicity trials in India, with similar outcomes showing strong immune responses and high efficacy.

Conclusion

When comparing Hexasil and EasySix, both vaccines offer nearly identical protection against six life-threatening diseases, using whole-cell pertussis components. The key differences come down to cost and availability. For families seeking a more affordable option, Hexasil is priced lower. However, for those willing to invest in a vaccine with similar efficacy but at a higher cost, EasySix remains a viable choice.

Ultimately, the decision may depend on factors like budget and availability, as well as the preferences of your healthcare provider. Both vaccines are safe and effective, ensuring that your child is well-protected against these serious diseases.

If you are uncertain which vaccine is best for your child, consult your pediatrician to discuss your options and determine the best course of action.