What is Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids Pediatric (DT)?
Tetanus and diphtheria are both serious diseases caused by bacteria. The disease can cause breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure, or even death. Tetanus causes a painful tightening in the muscles, which can cause the jaw to "lock" so that the victim is unable to open their mouth, breathe, or swallow. Tetanus is deadly. Diphtheria can be spread from one person to another. Tetanus can enter the body via a wound or cut. Diphtheria, Tetanus Toxoids (DT), and Pediatric (also known as DT) are used to prevent these diseases among children aged between 6 weeks and 6 years (before their seventh birthday). The vaccine will help your child develop immunity against these diseases, but it won't treat any infections that the child already has. The Diphtheria Tetanus Toxoids Pediatric (DT) vaccine may not protect everyone from disease.
Side effects of Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids Pediatric (DT)
If your child shows any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or hives. Keep track of any side effects that your child experiences. Tell the vaccine provider if your child has received a booster shot and if there were any side effects from the previous dose. Infecting your child with diphtheria, tetanus, or both is far more harmful than this vaccine. This vaccine, like all medicines, can have side effects, but the risks of serious side effects are low.
If your child is suffering from:
- Severe sleepiness
- When sleeping, the breathing stops.
- Nervous system problems: numbness, pain, or tingling; weakness or burning sensations; vision or hearing difficulties; difficulty breathing.
After receiving the vaccine, your child may feel faint.
Side effects that are common include:
- Fever;
- Loss of appetite and feeding problems
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Report any side effects caused by vaccines to the United States Department of Health and Human Services by calling 800-822-7967.
Similar/related drugs
Daptacel, Boostrix (Tdap), Adacel Tdap, Pentacel, and Pediarix
Warnings
The vaccine is not as effective as the diphtheria and tetanus vaccinations.
Before you take this drug
If your child has had an allergic reaction that could have been life-threatening to any diphtheria, tetanus, or other vaccines containing these substances, then this vaccine should be avoided. Inform the vaccine provider if your child was born prematurely or has had Guillain-Barre syndrome (within six weeks of receiving the tetanus vaccination). You can still give your child a vaccination if they have a minor cold. Wait until your child is better if they have a severe illness, such as a fever or infection. This vaccine is not recommended for anyone older than 7 years. There is another vaccine available for older children and adults.
How to take Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids Pediatric (DT)?
This vaccine is administered as an injection into a muscle. The series of injections can begin as early as six weeks. The first shot usually occurs when the child reaches 2 months of age. The booster shot is given between the ages of 4 months and 6 months. It can also be given between 15 and 18 months and 4 and 6 years. The booster schedule for your child may differ from the guidelines. You can follow the instructions of your doctor or the schedule set by your local health department.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are behind on your booster doses or have missed a scheduled dose, contact your doctor. The next dose should be administered as soon as you can. There is no need to start again. If you do not give your child all the recommended doses, they may not be protected from disease.
What happens if I overdose?
It is very unlikely that this vaccine will cause an overdose.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
If your child is receiving drugs or treatments that can weaken their immune system (including:
- An oral, nasal, inhaled, or injectable steroid medicine;
- Treatments for cancer: chemotherapy or radiation
- Treatment of psoriasis or arthritis
- Medicines to treat or prevent transplant rejection
This list is incomplete. This vaccine may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines and vitamin and herb products. This list does not include all possible drug interactions.
