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Tetanus; Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine Injection

What is this medication?

TETANUS; DIPHTHERIA VACCINE (TET n us; dif THEER ee uh vak SEEN) reduces the risk of tetanus (lockjaw) and diphtheria. It does not treat tetanus or diphtheria. It is still possible to get tetanus or diphtheria after receiving the vaccine, but the symptoms may be less severe or not last as long. It works by helping your immune system learn how to fight off a future infection.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): DECAVAC, TDVAX, TENIVAC

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Bleeding disorder
  • Immune system problems
  • Infection with fever
  • Low levels of platelets in the blood
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to diphtheria or tetanus toxoid, latex, other vaccines, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This vaccine is injected into a muscle. It is given by your care team.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. This sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed to children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Keep appointments for follow-up doses as directed. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

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What may interact with this medication?

  • Adalimumab
  • Anakinra
  • Certain medications that prevent or treat blood clots, such as daily aspirin, enoxaparin, heparin, ticlopidine, warfarin
  • Infliximab
  • Live virus vaccines
  • Medications that lower your chance of fighting infection
  • Medications to treat cancer
  • Radiopharmaceuticals, such as iodine I-125 or I-131

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team regularly.

Report any side effects to your care team right away.

This vaccine, like all vaccines, may not fully protect everyone.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Feeling faint or lightheaded

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Fever
  • General discomfort and fatigue
  • Headache
  • Joint pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Muscle weakness
  • Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This vaccine is only given by your care team. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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