Tetanus immunoglobulin is used together with other medicines to prevent tetanus (also known as lock jaw, is an infection caused by toxins produced by a bacteria called Clostridium tetani that causes muscle contractions, particularly of your jaw and neck muscles).
Tetanus immunoglobulin injection is to be given intramuscularly (into the muscle, usually into the muscles of the upper arm, thigh, or buttocks).
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
The dose of Tetanus immunoglobulin will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the severity of your condition.
Do not use Tetanus immunoglobulin if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- abnormal condition of the blood vessels
- blood coagulation disorders
- diseases that increase blood thickness
- severe low blood volume
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Tetanus immunoglobulin to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Inform your doctor if you have been recently vaccinated. Do not receive any vaccinations without first asking your doctor.
If you are going to have certain laboratory blood tests (e.g. Coomb's test), inform your doctor that you are given Tetanus immunoglobulin as it can interfere with certain tests.
Tetanus immunoglobulin may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, body weakness, back pain, and injection site reactions (e.g. swelling, soreness, redness, local heat, itching, bruising, rash).
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth
- chest tightness or pressure, pain that may spread to the arms, jaw, neck, shoulder, or back, lightheadedness
- pain, swelling, and tenderness in your leg accompanied by redness and warmth
- signs and symptoms of blood clots in a lung artery e.g. shortness of breath, chest pain, cough which may contain blood
- weakness or numbness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, vision problems, changes in balance or coordination
- low blood pressure
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Avoid vaccinations with live vaccines for at least 3 months from the last dose of this medicine. Alert your doctor if you have been recently vaccinated or if you are planning to get vaccinated.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow Tetanus immunoglobulin to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used.
Protect from light.
Keep away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.