Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

DIPHTHERIA AND TETANUS TOXOIDS COMBINED (PEDIATRIC) - INJECTION

(dip-THEER-ee-uh AND TET-un-us TOX-oids (pee-dee-AT-rick)

Uses

This medication is given to provide protection (immunity) against diphtheria and tetanus disease in children from 2 months of age up to seven years of age.

How To Use

This medication is injected into a muscle by a health care professional. It is usually given in the upper arm or in the upper thigh muscle. This vaccination is routinely administered at 2, 4, 6 and 15 or 18 months of age as indicated in the recommended immunization schedule for infants and children. If you have an infection at the time, your doctor may choose to delay the vaccination until you are better. 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.

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, chills, headache, muscle or joint aches, general body discomfort, flushing or itching. If these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if any of the following occur after vaccination with this medication: tingling of the hands or feet, rapid heart rate, high fever, trouble swallowing, skin rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor of: all illnesses, infections, reactions to a previous vaccination, allergies.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: steroids, cyclosporine, immunosuppressants, blood thinners, anti-cancer medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

There are various combinations of vaccines available. Based on previous reactions to vaccines, your health care provider will determine the most appropriate one(s) to use. Use only the intramuscular route. Inform your doctor of all previous reactions to any vaccines. Discuss the risks and benefits of vaccination with your health care provider.

Missed Dose

It is important to receive each vaccination as scheduled. Be sure to make a note of when the vaccination was last given for your medical record.

Storage

Store this medication as directed.