Adult Dosing
Pediatric Dosing
Immunization(6 wks-7 yrs)
- Vaccination series consists of 5 doses administered as follows
- 0.5 mL IM x 3 at 2, 4, and 6 months of age at intervals of 4-8 wks (primary immunization)
- 0.5 mL IM at 15-18 months of age (booster dose)
- 0.5 mL IM at 4-6 yrs of age (booster dose)
- First dose may be given as early as 6 wks. Recommended interval between 3rd and 4th dose is 6-12 months; give 5th dose before kindergarten entry. 5th dose is not needed if 4th dose was given after 4th birthday
Notes- For IM administration only. Not for intradermal, subcutaneous, IV, or intra-arterial administration. The preferred site is into the anterolateral aspect of the mid-thigh (vastus lateralis muscle) or into the deltoid muscle
- Booster shot every 10 years
[Outline]
See Supplemental Patient Information
- Defer vaccination in acute illness unless benefit outweighs the risk
- If prior vaccine causes Guillain-Barré syndrome within 6 weeks, a decision should be made whether to give any tetanus toxoid-containing vaccine, based on careful consideration of the potential benefits and possible risks
- Patients immunization history should be reviewed for possible vaccine hypersensitivity prior to administering any vaccine. Epinephrine and other appropriate agents should be made available in case an anaphylactic or acute hypersensitivity reaction occurs
- The expected immune response will not be obtained if vaccine is administered to immunocompromised persons, or persons receiving immunosuppressive therapy
- DT vaccination may not protect all individuals
- Diphtheria, tetanus toxoid can cause hemorrhage when given to infants or children with coagulation disorder, including thrombocytopenia, or to those on anticoagulant therapy
Cautions: Use cautiously in
- Concurrent immunosuppressants
- Immunosuppressed patients
- Guillain-Barre syndrome within 6 wks of prior tetanus vaccine
- Coagulation disorder
- Anticoagulant use
Supplemental Patient Information
- Inform the parent or guardian of the benefits and risks of the vaccine and the importance of completing the immunization series
Pregnancy Category:C
Breastfeeding: Not applicable

US Trade Name(s)
US Availability
diphtheria/tetanus toxoid (generic)

Canadian Trade Name(s)
Canadian Availability

UK Trade Name(s)
UK Availability

Australian Trade Name(s)
Australian Availability
[Outline]



