Pertussis Vaccine, Inactivated
The Acellular Pertussis Vaccine is an inactivated vaccine that protects against pertussis (whooping cough), a highly contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract. It contains purified antigenic components of Bordetella pertussis rather than whole killed bacteria, making it generally better tolerated than older whole-cell formulations. This vaccine is primarily used as part of combination vaccines (such as DTaP for children or Tdap for adolescents and adults) to provide protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
An inactivated vaccine providing protection against whooping cough, typically administered as part of combination vaccines for children and adults.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 798302
- Generic
- Acellular Pertussis Vaccine, Inactivated
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- Quadracel, Vaxelis, Infanrix, Daptacel, PEDIARIX, Boostrix, Adacel, Pentacel, Kinrix
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- prefilled syringe, injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention of pertussis (whooping cough) caused by Bordetella pertussis. Routinely given to infants and children as part of the DTaP series (typically at 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months with a booster at 4-6 years). Adolescents and adults receive it as Tdap, with additional booster doses recommended during each pregnancy and for close contacts of newborns.
The vaccine contains purified pertussis antigens (primarily pertussis toxoid, filamentous hemagglutinin, pertactin, and fimbriae) that stimulate the immune system to produce protective antibodies. These antibodies help neutralize pertussis toxin and prevent bacterial adhesion to respiratory epithelial cells, providing immunity without using live or whole killed bacteria.
Contraindicated in individuals with severe allergic reactions to previous doses or any vaccine component. May cause mild side effects including injection site pain, swelling, fever, or fussiness in children. Precautions exist for those with progressive neurological disorders or moderate-severe illness. Vaccine effectiveness decreases over time, necessitating booster doses. Part of routine childhood immunization schedules worldwide.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 29, 2026. · Read our editorial policy