GENERIC NAME: TETANUS TOXOID - INJECTION (TET-un-us TOX-oid)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is given to protect (immunize) against tetanus infection. This vaccine is routinely given to all children between 2 months and 6 years of age. Booster injections may be required at the time of injury in older children and adults if it has been 5-10 years since the last tetanus vaccine was received.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by a health care professional as an injection into the thigh or upper arm muscle. If you have an infection at the time, your doctor may choose to delay the vaccination until you are better.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause irritation, redness, swelling, warmth, itching, bruising, pain and a hard lump at the injection site which lasts a few days up to a week. Other side effects include low grade fever, muscle or joint aches, general body discomfort, flushing or itching. If these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following after vaccination with this medication: tingling of the hands or feet, hearing difficulties, trouble swallowing, skin rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: infections, asthma, had a bad reaction to previous vaccinations, allergies (especially to horse serum). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially: corticosteroids, cyclosporine, anticancer medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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