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Tetanus Immune Globulin

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 24, 2026

Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG) is a blood product containing antibodies against the tetanus toxin, providing immediate passive immunity. It is primarily used for post-exposure prophylaxis in individuals with tetanus-prone wounds who are unvaccinated or have incomplete vaccination status, and may also be used alongside other treatments in active tetanus infection.

Quick summary

TIG provides immediate short-term protection against tetanus by supplying ready-made antibodies, used mainly after wounds in unvaccinated individuals.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 24, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
J06BB02
RxNorm
1727875
Generic
Tetanus Immune Globulin
Class
atc-j06
Brands
Hypertet
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
—
Forms
prefilled syringe
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

adult (standard)intramuscular injection
Usual dose
250-500 IU
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
single dose (prophylaxis)
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)intramuscular injection
Usual dose
250 IU
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
single dose (prophylaxis)
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)intramuscular injection
Usual dose
250-500 IU
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
single dose (prophylaxis)
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Doses significantly exceeding recommended therapeutic amounts may increase risk of volume overload and severe allergic reactions
Chronic overdose: Not typically associated with chronic toxicity; repeated high doses may increase risk of aseptic meningitis and renal impairment
Immediate actions
Discontinue infusion, maintain airway, intravenous fluids, antihistamines, corticosteroids
Antidote
No specific antidote available(Supportive care is primary treatment; outcomes depend on severity and rapidity of intervention)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

10 groups
⚠

pregnancy

first trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

use only when benefits clearly outweigh potential risks to fetus

Monitor

regular prenatal monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

pregnancy

third trimester
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

use when indicated for tetanus prophylaxis post-exposure

Monitor

standard prenatal care

✓

lactation

breastfeeding
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

compatible with breastfeeding

Monitor

none required

✓

pediatric_age

neonates
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

weight-based dosing

Key Recommendations

use recommended pediatric dose of 250-500 IU depending on weight

Monitor

monitor for hypersensitivity reactions

✓

pediatric_age

infants and children
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

weight-based dosing

Key Recommendations

standard pediatric dosing applies

Monitor

monitor for infusion reactions

✓

geriatric

elderly
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

use standard adult dosing

Monitor

monitor renal function

✓

renal_impairment

mild to moderate
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no dose modification required

Monitor

standard monitoring

✓

renal_impairment

severe
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

use standard dosing

Monitor

monitor for fluid overload in dialysis patients

✓

hepatic_impairment

mild to moderate
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no dose modification required

Monitor

standard monitoring

✓

hepatic_impairment

severe
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

use standard dosing

Monitor

clinical monitoring

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingFDA
2023

Commonly prescribed since

Value:1970s

General prescribing information for tetanus immune globulin products

drug_classWHO
2023

Drug class

Value:Immune globulin

Pharmacological classification of Tetanus Immune Globulin

usageCDC
2023

Common uses

Value:Tetanus prophylaxis and passive immunization

Primary therapeutic indications for TIG administration

administrationFDA
2023

Route of administration

Value:Intramuscular injection

Standard administration route for Hypertet

Prevention of tetanus after injuries in unvaccinated or inadequately vaccinated individuals, especially for contaminated, puncture, or crush wounds; sometimes used as adjunctive therapy in confirmed tetanus infection; may be considered for neonatal tetanus prevention in certain situations.

Contains pre-formed immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies specific to tetanus toxin derived from pooled human plasma; these antibodies neutralize circulating tetanus toxin, providing immediate but temporary passive immunity while the recipient's own immune system does not typically develop lasting protection.

Administered by intramuscular injection; provides protection lasting several weeks to months; does not substitute for active immunization with tetanus vaccine—patients should receive or continue a vaccination series; blood-derived product with theoretical risk of infectious disease transmission despite screening; use with caution in individuals with immunoglobulin A deficiency or severe thrombocytopenia.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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