Diphtheria antitoxin is used to prevent and/or treat diphtheria infection in people exposed to the disease.
Although diphtheria is rare in the US, it is a serious disease that can cause life-threatening illnesses. Diphtheria is transmitted through contact with an infected person or carrier.
This medication is only to be administered by or under the supervision of your doctor or health care professional.
This product is available in the following forms:
Before using Diphtheria Antitoxin, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. This is a decision that you and your doctor will make together.
For this medication, there are many things that need to be considered:
Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other medications. It is also important to inform your doctor of any non-medicine allergies such as foods, dyes, preservatives or animals.
Pediatric: No appropriate studies have been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of this medication in children. However, this medication is not expected to cause any different any different side effects in children than it does in adults.
Geriatric: No appropriate studies have been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of this medication in elderly patients. However, this medication is not expected to cause any different side effects in the elderly than it does in younger adults.
Breastfeeding: Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used while breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions: Certain medications should not be used together. However, in certain cases, two medications may be used together, even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change your dose or take other precautions. When taking this medication, it is important that you inform your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over the counter medications.
Other Interactions: Certain medications should not be used while eating, or while eating certain foods in case of negative interactions. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medications may also cause negative interactions. Talk with your doctor about the use of your medication with food, alcohol or tobacco.
Other Medical Problems: Pre-existing medical problems may affect the use of this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems.
To use Diphtheria Antitoxin properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. Different patients will be given a different dose of this medication based on the strength of the medication.
The number of doses you take each day, the time between doses and the length of time you take this medication depends on the reason you are taking this medication.
The following information only includes the average dose of this medication. If your dose is different, do not change it without first speaking to your doctor.
For prevention of diphtheria:
- Adults and children - 1 dose injected into a muscle (intramuscular)
For treatment of diphtheria:
- Adults and children - 1-6 doses injected into a muscle (intramuscular)
Make sure you meet with your doctor in using Diphtheria Antitoxin to avoid unwanted potential side effects. A medication may produce unwanted effects along with the intended effects. Although not all of these side-effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side-effects:
More common:
- Chilly sensation
- Difficulty breathing and swallowing
- Feeling of discomfort
- Fever
- Inflammation of joints
- Hives
- Itching, especially of hands or feet
- Muscle aches
- Rapid rise in body temperature
- Rash
- Reddening of skin, especially around ears
- Swelling of eyes, face, or inside of nose
- Swollen lymph glands
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (sudden and severe)
Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any other side effects. Ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
