Drug information of Tetanus immuneglobulin

Mechanism of effect

The immune globulin binds to tetanus toxiod, interfering with the normal interaction of the toxoid with human tissue. This prevents the toxoid from invading the nervous system and producing painful muscle spasms as well as autonomic dysfunction.

The Clostridium tetani bacterium is killed either via antibiotic treatment of the host's immune system and immune globulin-bound toxoid is likely broken down by phagocytic immune cells.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Tmax for intramuscular administration is 2 days

Half-life: 23 days

Dosage

powder for injection (250 units)

Adults

Tetanus

Prophylaxis: 250 Units IM (single dose)

Active tetanus: 3000-6000 Units IM

Clean minor wound

# doses unknown or 0-2 doses; toxoid only

>3 doses; toxoid if >10 years ago

All other wounds

# doses unknown or 0-1 doses; toxoid plus IG

2 doses; toxoid, but no IG if wound <24 hours old

>3 doses; toxoid if >5 years ago, and no IG

Pediatrics

Tetanus Prophylaxis

<7 years old: 4 Unit/kg or 250 Units IM

>7 years old: 250 Units IM (single dose)

Tetanus Treatment 

Drug contraindications

Side effects

Interactions

Alerts

Thrombocytopenia or coagulation disorders may contraindicate IM injection

Made from human plasma, small risk of viral transmission through administration

Points of recommendation

Discuss specific use of drug and side effects with patient as it relates to treatment.

• Patient may experience short-term pain (HCAHPS).
• Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat).

Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.

Pregnancy level

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