GENERIC NAME: DIPHTHERIA/TETANUS/PERTUSSIS VACCINE PEDIATRIC - INJECTION (dip-THEER-ee-uh/TET-un-us/per-TUSS-iss vack-SEEN)

BRAND NAME(S): Daptacel, Infanrix, Tripedia

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is given to provide protection (immunity) against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis diseases in children from 6 weeks of age up to seven years of age.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a muscle (IM) by a health care professional. Shake this medication well before using. It is usually given in the upper arm or in the upper thigh. The recommended vaccination schedule is a dose at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months and 15 or 20 months with a booster dose at prior to entering school at 4-6 years of age. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

SIDE EFFECTS: Most common is redness, warmth, swelling or pain at the injection site beginning within 3 days. For several weeks, it may be possible to feel a firm, hard spot at the injection site. Mild fever, irritability, vomiting, loss of appetite, sleepiness, weakness, runny nose, diarrhea may last 1-7 days. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if any of the following occur: high fever, persistent inconsolable crying (beginning within 48 hours of the shot and lasting longer than 3 hours), seizure, collapse. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other illnesses or infections, bleeding disorders, seizure disorders, any allergies. This vaccine should not be administered to adults or to children 7 years of age or older. This age group should receive the tetanus/diphtheria vaccine without pertussis. This vaccination should not be used in persons who have had a previous reaction to pertussis vaccine or who have recovered from pertussis illness.