Tetanus Toxoid (Injection)

Tetanus Toxoid (TET-n-us TOX-oyd)

Protects against tetanus (the bacteria that causes lockjaw).

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any tetanus vaccine or to thimerosal, or if you have a fever or any type of active infection.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

 
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles.  
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.  
• This medicine is given as a series of 3 to 4 shots. The first 2 or 3 shots are given 4 to 8 weeks apart, and the remaining shot is given 6 to 12 months later. A booster shot may then be given every 10 years.

If a dose is missed::

 
• Call your doctor for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

 
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a steroid taken by mouth (such as cortisone, prednisone), or if you have received chemotherapy or radiation treatments.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

 
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have HIV or AIDS, or any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

 
• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing  
• Fever, chills, muscle or joint pain  
• Hard lump or skin changes where the shot is given  
• Seizures  
• Sudden weakness in the legs, spreading to the upper body and arms

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

 
• Headache  
• Pain, redness, warmth, or tenderness where the shot is given

Drugs & Medications

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.