ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE Injection

What is ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

The ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE is a combination vaccine used to prevent two potentially life-threatening bacterial infections: Diphtheria and Tetanus. It contains purified toxoids of the diphtheria and tetanus bacteria, which have been adsorbed onto an aluminium-based adjuvant to enhance the immune response.

• Diphtheria is a serious infection of the throat and respiratory tract caused by *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*. It can lead to difficulty breathing, heart failure, paralysis, and even death.
• Tetanus, also known as "lockjaw", is caused by the bacterium *Clostridium tetani*. It leads to severe muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw and neck, and can be fatal without proper treatment.
• The vaccine is typically administered as part of a routine immunization program and is often given in combination with other vaccines such as pertussis (whooping cough).

Each 0.5ml ampoule of this adsorbed vaccine is intended for intramuscular injection and is formulated to stimulate long-lasting immunity. It is especially important for children, pregnant women, and individuals at high risk of tetanus due to injuries.

How to use ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

Proper administration of the ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE is essential to ensure effective immunization and minimize the risk of adverse effects. The vaccine is administered by trained healthcare professionals following immunization guidelines.

• Route of Administration: The vaccine is given as an intramuscular (IM) injection, typically in the deltoid muscle in older children and adults, or the anterolateral thigh in infants and young children.
• Dosage: Each dose is 0.5 ml. The primary series usually consists of 3 doses, followed by booster doses at scheduled intervals as per national guidelines.
• Age Group: Recommended for children starting at 6 weeks of age, and also given to adults as booster doses every 10 years or after a tetanus-prone injury.
• Precautions: Ensure that the vaccine is shaken well before administration and that it is not frozen. Discard if there are any particles or discoloration in the ampoule.
• Post-Injection: Monitor for 15–30 minutes post-vaccination for any immediate allergic reactions. Mild pain or swelling at the injection site is common and usually subsides within a few days.

Vaccination should be recorded in the individual’s immunization history and follow-up boosters should be scheduled accordingly to maintain immunity.

Mode of Action ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

The ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE works by stimulating the body's immune system to recognize and fight the bacteria that cause diphtheria and tetanus without causing the actual diseases. Here's how it works:

• Diphtheria Toxoid: This is an inactivated form of the toxin produced by *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*. It is detoxified so it cannot cause disease but still prompts the immune system to produce specific antibodies.
• Tetanus Toxoid: An inactivated form of the toxin produced by *Clostridium tetani*. Like diphtheria toxoid, it stimulates the immune system to create antibodies that neutralize the real toxin if encountered later.
• Aluminium Adjuvant: The toxoids are adsorbed onto aluminium phosphate or aluminium hydroxide. This enhances the body’s immune response by prolonging antigen exposure and promoting stronger, longer-lasting immunity.
• Immunological Memory: The vaccine trains the immune system to "remember" the diphtheria and tetanus toxins. If exposed to the actual bacteria in the future, the immune system can respond rapidly and effectively.

Immunity typically develops within 2–4 weeks after the initial series and is further strengthened with booster doses. This active immunity helps prevent severe complications associated with both infections.

ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE Interactions ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

While the ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE is generally safe and well-tolerated, certain drug or vaccine interactions may alter its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

• Live Vaccines: Can be administered concurrently with live vaccines (e.g., MMR, OPV), but they must be injected at different sites using separate syringes.
• Immunosuppressive Therapy: Use of corticosteroids, chemotherapy, or immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine, cyclosporine) may reduce the immune response to the vaccine.
• Other Vaccines: When combined with other toxoid-based vaccines (e.g., DTP, Td), they should follow official immunization schedules to avoid redundancy or over-immunization.
• Anticoagulants: Individuals taking warfarin or other blood thinners may be at increased risk for bleeding at the injection site. Caution should be taken during IM administration.
• Previous Vaccine Reactions: If the patient had an allergic or anaphylactic reaction to any previous diphtheria or tetanus-containing vaccine, avoid re-administration unless medically justified.

Always consult a healthcare professional about current medications and medical history before receiving the vaccine to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Dosage of ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

The dosing schedule for the ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE varies by age, immunization status, and national immunization program guidelines. Each dose contains 0.5 ml of the vaccine.

• Primary Immunization (Children):
  • First dose at 6 weeks of age
  • Second dose at 10 weeks
  • Third dose at 14 weeks
• Booster Doses:
  • First booster at 18 months
  • Second booster at 5 years
  • Further boosters every 10 years for adults
• Post-Exposure (Tetanus-Prone Wounds):
  • 1 dose may be administered if prior immunization history is incomplete or unknown
  • May be combined with tetanus immunoglobulin (TIG) in high-risk wounds
• Pregnant Women: A dose is recommended in the third trimester to protect the newborn against neonatal tetanus.

The 0.5 ml dose should be injected intramuscularly. In cases of delayed or missed doses, the series should be continued without restarting.

Possible side effects of ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

Like all vaccines, the ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Most reactions are mild and resolve without treatment.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  • Mild fever (usually below 38.5°C)
  • Irritability or fussiness in children
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headache or muscle aches
  • Localized lymph node swelling
• Rare but Serious Reactions:
  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – signs include difficulty breathing, rash, rapid heartbeat
  • High fever above 39°C
  • Convulsions (febrile seizures in young children)

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe reactions. Report all suspected side effects to a healthcare provider or national pharmacovigilance system.

ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE Contraindications ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

The ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE should not be administered in certain individuals due to the risk of serious adverse effects. It’s crucial to evaluate medical history before immunization.

• Severe Allergic Reaction: History of anaphylaxis to any component of the vaccine or a previous dose is a contraindication.
• Neurological Disorders: Avoid in patients with progressive neurological conditions such as uncontrolled epilepsy or encephalopathy unless benefits outweigh the risks.
• Acute Febrile Illness: Postpone vaccination in the presence of moderate or severe acute illness with or without fever. Minor illnesses (e.g., cold) are not a contraindication.
• Immune Deficiency: May result in a reduced response to the vaccine; special precautions are needed based on clinical judgment.
• Hypersensitivity to Aluminium or Formaldehyde: Individuals with known sensitivity to these components should avoid this vaccine.

Consult a healthcare provider to assess risks vs. benefits in borderline cases.

Storage of ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE

Proper storage is essential to maintain the vaccine's potency and effectiveness. The ADSORBED DIPHTHERIA TETANUS VACCINE must be stored according to strict guidelines.

• Temperature: Store at +2°C to +8°C in a dedicated vaccine refrigerator.
• Do Not Freeze: Freezing can irreversibly damage the vaccine. If accidentally frozen, discard immediately.
• Light Protection: Keep in the original packaging to protect from light, which can degrade vaccine components.
• Shelf Life: Follow the expiry date indicated on the ampoule or outer carton. Do not use expired vaccines.
• Cold Chain Maintenance: During transport, ensure the vaccine is kept within the recommended temperature range using validated cold boxes or carriers.
• Post-Opening: Single-dose ampoules should be used immediately after opening and discarded if not used.

Healthcare facilities must maintain accurate temperature logs and train staff in cold chain management to ensure vaccine integrity.