Tetanus Toxoid

Tetanus toxoid is a vaccine component prepared by formaldehyde inactivation of tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT) from Clostridium tetani, which when administered as part of immunization schedules (DTaP, Td, Tdap), stimulates production of specific neutralizing antibodies that prevent the neurotoxin from binding to nerve terminals and blocking inhibitory neurotransmitter release. It forms the basis of universal tetanus immunization programs and is included in combination vaccines for pediatric and adult immunization. Booster doses maintain protective antibody levels throughout life.

A formaldehyde-inactivated preparation of tetanus neurotoxin. The toxoid keeps the antigenic structure of the toxin but not its protease activity, so it primes B and T lymphocytes to produce neutralising antitoxin antibodies and lasting immunological memory. On later exposure those antibodies bind circulating tetanospasmin before it can be taken up by peripheral nerve terminals and transported to the spinal cord.

Yes, Tetanus Toxoid is an approved drug. It has reached clinical phase 4. It is classified as a Vaccine component.