How do you take Tetanus antitoxin?

This is not a tablet, it is given as an injection by a doctor or nurse at a hospital or health centre. For prevention after a wound, the usual adult dose is 1,500 to 3,000 IU injected into the muscle or under the skin. For treatment of active tetanus, much higher doses (up to 10,000 IU or more) may be given. You do not take this at home by yourself.

What are the side effects of Tetanus antitoxin?

Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site; mild fever; body aches or general discomfort; skin rash or itching around the injection area

Who should not take Tetanus antitoxin?

People who have had a severe allergic reaction to horse serum or any previous tetanus antitoxin injection should not take it, inform your doctor immediately. People with a history of asthma or severe allergies should be closely monitored. A skin sensitivity test is usually done before the injection to check for allergic reactions.

Prescription

Antitoxin (Passive Immunizing Agent)

Tetanus antitoxin

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Tetanus antitoxin is an injection that contains ready-made antibodies (protective proteins) that immediately neutralize the poison produced by the tetanus germ in your body, helping to prevent or treat tetanus infection.

How it works

Binds to and neutralizes circulating tetanus toxin (tetanospasmin) through specific antigen-antibody interactions, preventing toxin attachment to neuromuscular junctions and blocking inhibitory neurotransmitter blockade that causes characteristic muscle rigidity and spasms.

What is it used for?

Prevention of tetanus (lock jaw) after deep wounds, dirty cuts, rusty nail injuries, animal bites, burns, or any wound contaminated with soil or dirt; treatment of active tetanus infection

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Always get this injection at a proper hospital, clinic, or health centre, never buy it from roadside sellers or patent medicine stores, as it must be stored in a fridge and handled properly. After receiving the injection, stay at the hospital for at least 30 minutes so the health workers can watch you for any allergic reaction. Remember that tetanus antitoxin gives only temporary protection, you still need to complete your tetanus vaccine (TT) for long-term protection.

Common Side Effects

Pain
redness
or swelling at the injection site; mild fever; body aches or general discomfort; skin rash or itching around the injection area

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rapid heartbeat, dizziness) is a medical emergency
go to the hospital immediately; serum sickness (joint pain, fever, widespread rash, and swollen glands appearing days after injection) see a doctor right away.

Drug Interactions

Tetanus antitoxin should not be given at the same time as tetanus toxoid vaccine in the same syringe, they must be given at different injection sites. Drugs that weaken the immune system (like steroids or chemotherapy drugs) may reduce how well the antitoxin works. Inform your doctor about any other medicines you are currently taking.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Tetanus antitoxin can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed to prevent or treat tetanus, but it should be given under a doctor's supervision.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who have had a severe allergic reaction to horse serum or any previous tetanus antitoxin injection should not take it
inform your doctor immediately. People with a history of asthma or severe allergies should be closely monitored. A skin sensitivity test is usually done before the injection to check for allergic reactions.

How to Store

Store in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze it. Do not leave it in the sun or in a hot room, as Nigerian heat can destroy it quickly. Keep away from children. If you notice the liquid is cloudy, discoloured, or has particles floating in it, do not use it.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.