Tetanus toxoid (TT/Td vaccine)

Vaccine
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Tetanus toxoid is a vaccine. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: tetanus injection, tt injection, tt vaccine, td vaccine, tetanus vaccine

What it is used for

Prevents tetanus after cuts, wounds and in pregnancy; boosters are needed every 10 years, or sooner after a dirty wound.

How it works

A vaccine (TT or Td) that protects against tetanus; Td also covers diphtheria.

How to take it

Boosters every 10 years, after dirty wounds if not recent, and in each pregnancy as scheduled.

Common side effects

  • Sore, swollen arm
  • Mild fever

Get medical help straight away if

  • Allergic reaction
  • Severe swelling of the whole arm

Be careful

A sore arm is common. Deep or dirty wounds may also need tetanus immunoglobulin.

Other medicines and interactions

No important interactions.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Recommended in pregnancy to protect mother and newborn.

Common questions

What is Tetanus toxoid used for?

Prevents tetanus after cuts, wounds and in pregnancy; boosters are needed every 10 years, or sooner after a dirty wound.

How does Tetanus toxoid work?

A vaccine (TT or Td) that protects against tetanus; Td also covers diphtheria.

How should I take Tetanus toxoid?

Boosters every 10 years, after dirty wounds if not recent, and in each pregnancy as scheduled.

What are the side effects of Tetanus toxoid?

Common: Sore, swollen arm, mild fever. Get help straight away for: Allergic reaction, severe swelling of the whole arm.

Does Tetanus toxoid interact with other medicines?

No important interactions.

Is Tetanus toxoid safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Recommended in pregnancy to protect mother and newborn.

Does Tetanus toxoid need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.