Tetanus Toxoid

Description

Tetanus Toxoid is a bacterial vaccine that helps protect against tetanus by sti

mulating the immune system to produce protective antibodies against the toxin released by Clostridium tetani. It is used as a preventive measure and cannot treat an existing tetanus infection. A booster dose is generally recommended every ten years, and it may also be given after wounds or injuries that increase the risk of tetanus. People with acute infections or a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines or blood products should avoid receiving Tetanus Toxoid, while pregnant and breastfeeding women may take it if advised by their doctor. Mild side effects like pain or redness at the injection site and low-grade fever can occur but usually resolve on their own; consult a doctor if they persist or worsen.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Tetanus Toxoid is used to protect against tetanus through active immunization.

Contraindications

When should one not use Tetanus Toxoid

Tetanus Toxoid is not recommended if you have previously experienced anaphylaxis or any other serious allergic reaction to this medicine or a vaccine containing tetanus toxoid.
It should not be given to individuals with a high fever or other signs of acute illness.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Mild fever
Tiredness or fatigue
Muscle aches
Headache
Irritability (more common in children)

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Tetanus Toxoid during pregnancy?

Tetanus Toxoid can be used in pregnant women if prescribed by the physician. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Tetanus Toxoid while breastfeeding?

consult your doctor before receiving Tetanus Toxoid while breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Tetanus Toxoid?

Tetanus Toxoid has no or negligible effect on the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Tetanus Toxoid?

Limited information is available on the interaction of alcohol with

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have any preexisting medical conditions or diseases.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

When administered, Tetanus Toxoid prompts the immune system to produce specific antibodies against the toxin. This initial exposure also generates memory cells that enable a quick and strong antibody ...

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

It is important to inform your doctor if you are taking immunosuppressants, such as tacrolimus, prednisone, or azathioprine, which are used to treat autoimmune diseases or prevent graft rejection.

Dosage

Overdose

Tetanus Toxoid should only be administered by a doctor or nurse in a hospital setting. This helps minimize the risk of an overdose. If you experience any unpleasant symptoms after receiving Tetanus To...

Missed a Dose

It is unlikely that the dose of this medication will be missed if you are monitored in a healthcare setting. However, if you have missed a dose of this medication, please inform your doctor or nurse.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the common side effects of Tetanus Toxoid?

A: Typical, short-lived side effects include pain and redness at the injection site or a slight fever. A loss of appetite may also occur. If any symptoms worsen or persist, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Q: What is Tetanus Toxoid used for?

Tetanus Toxoid is used to protect against tetanus infection through active immunisation. It works by stimulating your immune system to produce protective antibodies against the bacteria that cause tet...
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Q: Can other medications affect the effectiveness of Tetanus Toxoid?

A: Yes, it is important to inform your doctor if you are taking immunosuppressants. These medications, such as tacrolimus, prednisone, or azathioprine, are used to treat autoimmune diseases or prevent graft rejection and may impair your immune response to the Tetanus Toxoid.

Q: Are there any specific conditions that may prevent me from getting Tetanus Toxoid?

Yes, you should not receive the Tetanus Toxoid if you have had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to this medicine or any other tetanus toxoid-containing medicines in the past. It is also contra...
Read more

References

Last Updated on: 24 Nov 2025 | 11:50 AM (IST)

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Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.