Generic
Tetanus Toxoid (Absorbed Tetanus) Vaccine
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
Tetanus Toxoid (Adsorbed) Vaccine is used for active immunization against tetanus in infants, children 7 years and older, and adults. It is also used for prevention of neonatal tetanus.
Description
Adsorbed Tetanus Toxoid Vaccine contains tetanus toxoid that stimulates the immune system to produce antitoxin capable of neutralizing tetanus toxin. The aluminum hydroxide adjuvant enhances the immune response. It is not for treatment of active tetanus infection but for prevention.
Indications
- Active immunization against tetanus in infants, children ≥7 years, and adults
- Prevention of neonatal tetanus (immunization of women of childbearing age)
- Vaccination of injured persons (clean and contaminated wounds)
Therapeutic class
Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin
Pharmacological class
Active Immunization (Toxoid Vaccine)
Pharmacology
Adsorbed Tetanus Toxoid Vaccine contains tetanus toxoid that activates B-lymphocytes to produce antibodies against tetanus toxin. The aluminum hydroxide adjuvant enhances the immune response and provides long-lasting immunity. Booster doses are required every 10 years.
Mechanism of action
Stimulates antitoxin production to neutralize tetanus toxin.
Dosage
Primary Immunization (≥7 years):
- 3 doses of 0.5 mL: 1st at appropriate date, 2nd 4-8 weeks later, 3rd 6-12 months after 2nd
Routine Booster:
- 0.5 mL every 10 years
Vaccination of Injured Persons:
- Clean wounds: If booster within 5 years – none needed; >5 years – 1 dose
- Dirty wounds: If booster within 5 years – 1 dose; >5 years – 1 dose + tetanus immunoglobulin
Neonatal Tetanus Prevention:
- TT-1: 15 years, TT-2: 4 weeks later, TT-3: 6 months later, TT-4: 1 year later, TT-5: 1 year later
- Pregnant women (no prior immunization): 2 doses at 4-week intervals
Administration
- IM injection only; do not administer IV
- Adults and older children: Deltoid muscle
- Infants: Anterior lateral aspect of upper thigh
- Do not give in gluteal areas
- Use SC route in bleeding disorders
Missed dose
If doses are delayed, do not restart the series; continue with the next dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Local reactions at injection site (erythema, induration, tenderness)
- Systemic reactions (malaise, elevated temperature) – less common
Precautions & warnings
- Defer vaccination in moderate or severe febrile illness
- Caution in history of Guillain-Barré syndrome
- Caution in pregnancy and lactation
- Hypersensitivity to thiomersal-containing vaccines
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine, including thiomersal
- Previous hypersensitivity to any tetanus-containing vaccine
Drug interactions
- Immunosuppressants: Decreased immunologic response
- Tetanus immune globulin: Neutralization if not given at different sites with different syringes
Food interactions
Alcohol consumption is not relevant (vaccine).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Adequate human data and animal reproduction studies not available; may be given to pregnant women for neonatal tetanus prevention; use only if clearly needed; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Unknown if tetanus toxoid is excreted in human milk; use only if clearly needed; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Indicated for infants (primary immunization)
Geriatric use
Indicated for individuals ≥7 years
Renal / hepatic impairment
Not applicable
Overdose effects
No overdose information; excessive doses may increase local and systemic reactions.
Storage conditions
Store at 2-8°C in a refrigerator; do not freeze; protect from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Tetanus Toxoid Vaccine