Diphtheria Toxoid Vaccine, Inactivated
The Diphtheria Toxoid Vaccine is an inactivated vaccine that provides active immunization against diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae that can lead to breathing difficulties, heart problems, and nerve damage. It is administered as part of routine childhood immunization schedules and periodic booster doses for adults to maintain protection against this potentially life-threatening disease.
A vaccine that protects against diphtheria by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the diphtheria toxin.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J07AF
- RxNorm
- 798304
- Generic
- Diphtheria Toxoid Vaccine, Inactivated
- Class
- atc-j07
- Brands
- Tenivac, Quadracel, Tdvax, 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.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 0.5 mL
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- single dose or booster per schedule
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 0.5 mL
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- per immunization schedule
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 0.5 mL
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- booster per recommendations
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
6 groupspregnancy
generalstandard dosing if indicated
administer if benefits outweigh risks; preferentially avoid in first trimester unless high risk exposure
standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
generalno adjustment needed
can be administered to breastfeeding mothers
none specific
geriatric
over 65 yearsno adjustment needed
recommended for adults 65 and older as part of routine immunization
standard post-vaccination observation
pediatric_age
infants and childrenage-appropriate dosing per immunization schedule
administer according to CDC recommended immunization schedule
standard pediatric vaccination monitoring
renal_impairment
all stagesno adjustment needed
can be administered to patients with any stage of renal impairment
standard vaccination monitoring
hepatic_impairment
all stagesno adjustment needed
can be administered to patients with hepatic impairment
standard vaccination monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
First dose recommended age
Routine childhood immunization schedule
Drug class
Biological product classification
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indication
Routine use established
Widespread immunization program implementation
Prevention of diphtheria caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It is indicated for primary immunization in children and booster vaccination in adolescents and adults. Often combined with tetanus and pertussis vaccines (DTaP for children, Tdap for adolescents/adults).
The vaccine contains diphtheria toxoid, which is the inactivated (non-toxic) form of the diphtheria toxin produced by the bacteria. It stimulates the immune system to produce protective antibodies against the toxin without causing the disease. These antibodies neutralize the toxin if the person is later exposed to the actual bacteria.
Contraindicated in individuals with severe allergic reactions to any vaccine component. Common side effects include injection site reactions, fever, and irritability. Booster doses are required throughout life to maintain adequate protection. Not used for treatment of active diphtheria infection.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
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 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy