Tetanus Toxoid
About Tetanus Toxoid
Tetanus Toxoid is indicated for active immunisation against tetanus in adults, children, and infants. Tetanus toxoid vaccine is also used in the prevention of neonatal tetanus by immunizing women of childbearing age, and also in the prevention of tetanus following injury.
Tetanus Toxoid contains tetanus toxoid, which works by activating the immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies help neutralise the toxins produced by Clostridium tetani and prevent tetanus infection.
In some cases, Tetanus Toxoid may cause injection site reactions (redness, tenderness, thickening of skin), fever, irritability and discomfort. Most of these side effects may not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, talk to the doctor if the side effects persist or worsen.
Let the doctor know if you have experienced a severe reaction to a previous dose of tetanus. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Keep the doctor informed about your immunisation history, health condition and medications to prevent any side effects/interactions.
Uses of Tetanus Toxoid
Medicinal Benefits
Tetanus Toxoid is indicated for active immunisation against tetanus in adults, children, and infants, especially those liable to be exposed to tetanus infection and persons engaged in outdoor activities, e.g. gardeners, farm workers and athletes. Tetanus toxoid vaccine is also used in the prevention of neonatal tetanus by immunizing women of childbearing age and also in the prevention of tetanus following injury. Tetanus Toxoid contains tetanus toxoid, which works by activating the immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies help neutralise the toxins produced by Clostridium tetani and prevent tetanus infection.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Tetanus Toxoid
- Injection site reactions (redness, tenderness, thickening of skin)
- Fever
- Malaise (discomfort)
- Irritability
Drug Warnings
Tetanus Toxoid should not be used in individuals who are allergic to any of its components. Inform the doctor if you have a fever, Gullain-Barre syndrome (a condition that affects nerves), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), coagulation problems, or if you have had a hypersensitivity reaction to a previous dose of tetanus vaccine. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Let the doctor know if you are using any medicines or have any other medical conditions.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking immunosuppressants, other vaccines, or radiotherapy.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorLike with any vaccine, excessive alcohol consumption may increase side effects and decrease the body's immune system's ability to respond to the shot. Please consult your doctor for more information.
Pregnancy
consult your doctorTetanus Toxoid may be safe to use during pregnancy. However, please consult the doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorIt is not known whether the tetanus vaccine is excreted in breast milk. Please consult the doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Driving
consult your doctorThe effect of Tetanus Toxoid on the ability to drive is not established. Please consult the doctor.
Liver
consult your doctorPlease consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding the usage of Tetanus Toxoid in patients with liver impairment.
Kidney
consult your doctorPlease consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding the usage of Tetanus Toxoid in patients with kidney impairment.
Children
consult your doctorTetanus Toxoid is likely safe for use in children. Consult the doctor if you have any concerns.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a well-balanced diet.
- Using a damp cloth or ice pack can help reduce redness.
- Drink enough liquids.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Tetanus: Tetanus is an infection caused by a bacteria called Clostridium tetani, which is found in the environment. The first sign is most commonly lockjaw (spasms of the jaw muscles). Other symptoms include trouble swallowing, sudden/involuntary muscle spasms, painful muscle stiffness, seizures, headache, fever and sweating. Anyone can get tetanus. However, several factors can increase the risk for tetanus infection, such as not being vaccinated, recent wounds, older age, diabetes, and immunocompromising conditions.
FAQs
Tetanus Toxoid used to prevent tetanus (also known as lockjaw), an infection caused by a bacteria named Clostridium tetani.
Tetanus Toxoid works by producing an immunological response to the antigens. Thereby, it helps prevent tetanus infection.
Currently, there is no cure for tetanus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications.
Tetanus vaccine protects newborns from tetanus. For the prevention of tetanus in newborns, immunisation of women with child-bearing potential, especially pregnant women, is recommended. Consult the doctor regarding the dosing schedule or if you have any concerns.
Tetanus can be prevented through immunisation with tetanus-toxoid-containing vaccines such as Tetanus Toxoid. However, people who recover from tetanus do not have natural immunity and can be infected again.
CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends tetanus vaccination for everyone. Getting vaccinated against tetanus is the best way to prevent infection and is very effective.
Tetanus is acquired through infection of a cut or wound with the spores of the bacterium Clostridium tetani, and most cases occur within 14 days of infection.
No, tetanus cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Yes, tetanus is a very serious disease that requires immediate treatment in a hospital. Therefore, contact the doctor immediately if you notice signs of tetanus such as jaw muscle spasms, sudden/involuntary muscle spasms, painful muscle stiffness, and seizures.
Complications of tetanus include laryngospasm (uncontrolled tightening of the vocal cords), fracture (broken bone), pulmonary embolism (blockage in lungs caused by a blood clot), aspiration pneumonia (lung infection from inhaling spit or vomit), and difficulty breathing.
