Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids
Generic name: Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids [ dif-THEER-ee-a-& TET-a-nus-TOKS-oyds ]
Brand names: TDVAX, Tenivac
Drug class: Vaccine combinations
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 1, 2024.
Uses of Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids:
- It is used to prevent tetanus and diphtheria.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids?
- If you are allergic to this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids); any part of this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids?
For all patients taking this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids):
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- This medicine may not protect all people who use it. Talk with the doctor.
- If you have a latex allergy, talk with your doctor. Some products have latex.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.
Children:
- Not all brands of vaccines are for all children. Talk with your child's doctor.
- If your child was born premature, talk with the doctor. Trouble breathing has happened in these children after getting some vaccines.
How is this medicine (Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids) best taken?
Use this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
- It is given as a shot into a muscle.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
- Call your doctor to find out what to do.
What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- A burning, numbness, or tingling feeling that is not normal.
- Trouble controlling body movements.
- Muscle pain or weakness.
- Face muscle weakness or uneven smile.
- Very bad dizziness or passing out.
Related/similar drugs
Pediarix, Kinrix, Quadracel, TDVAX
What are some other side effects of Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
For all patients taking this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids):
- Pain, redness, or swelling where the shot was given.
- Headache.
- Feeling tired or weak.
- Joint pain or swelling.
- Upset stomach.
- Diarrhea.
- Mild fever.
Young children:
- Crying that is not normal.
- Not hungry.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
If OVERDOSE is suspected:
If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
How do I store and/or throw out Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids?
- If you need to store this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids) at home, talk with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about how to store it.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
- If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
- Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
- Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
- Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.
- Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about this medicine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
- If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
More about diphtheria toxoid/tetanus toxoid
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Reviews (1)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: vaccine combinations
Patient resources
- Diphtheria and tetanus toxoids vaccine drug information
- Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids vaccine Td
- Diphtheria and tetanus vaccine (Advanced Reading)
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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.