Generic
Tetanus Antitoxin (Equine) BP
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Tetanus Antitoxin (Equine) BP is used for passive immunization against tetanus, for post-exposure prophylaxis in traumatic wounds and therapeutic treatment of tetanus.
Description
Tetanus Antitoxin (Equine) is derived from equine plasma hyperimmunized against tetanus toxoid. It neutralizes tetanus toxin, providing passive immunity. Should be used with adsorbed tetanus vaccine (unless adequate vaccination is confirmed).
Indications
- Tetanus prophylaxis after injury (non-immune or partially immune individuals)
- Therapeutic treatment of tetanus
Therapeutic class
Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin
Pharmacological class
Passive Immunization (Equine-derived)
Pharmacology
Tetanus Antitoxin (Equine) contains antibodies produced in horses against tetanus toxoid. It neutralizes tetanus toxin, providing immediate passive immunity. Being animal-derived, it carries a risk of allergic reactions.
Mechanism of action
Neutralizes tetanus toxin to provide passive immunity.
Dosage
Adult Dose (SC/IM):
- Prophylaxis (general wounds): 3,000-5,000 IU
- Prophylaxis (after 24 hours): 3,000 IU
- Prophylaxis (crush or contaminated wounds): 10,000-20,000 IU
- Under 30 kg: 1,500 IU
- Tetanus treatment: 50,000-100,000 IU (partially IV, remainder IM)
Pediatric Dose (SC/IM):
- Under 30 kg: 1,500 IU
Administration
- SC or IM injection; IV (slowly in emergencies)
- Allergy test: 0.2 mL (1:10 diluted) SC trial dose; observe for 30 minutes
- Keep adrenaline ready for emergency use
- For IV use: serum at room temperature, inject slowly, patient recumbent
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, consult your doctor.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Injection site reactions (pain, tenderness)
- Fever, vomiting, diarrhea
- Bronchospasm, urticaria
Serious (Rare):
- Anaphylactic shock (hypotension, dyspnea)
- Serum sickness (7-10 days after)
- Nephritis, myocarditis, neuritis, polyarthritis
Precautions & warnings
- Extreme caution in allergic diseases (asthma, eczema) or history of allergy to previous antiserum injections
- If no previous serum injection or allergy history, IM may be given
- Give trial dose first in allergic patients
- Observe for at least 30 minutes after injection
Contraindications
- Allergic diseases (asthma, infantile eczema) or allergy to any previous antiserum injection
Drug interactions
- Immunosuppressants: Decreased immunologic response
- Tetanus immune globulin and tetanus toxoid: Neutralization if not given at different sites with different syringes
Food interactions
Alcohol consumption is not relevant (injection).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Adequate information not available; use only if clearly needed; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Adequate information not available; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Indicated for children (weight-based dosing)
Geriatric use
Indicated for elderly
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution required; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution required; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose increases allergic reaction risk; for anaphylaxis, use adrenaline, antihistamines, corticosteroids; provide symptomatic treatment.
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 Antitoxin (Equine)