A 45-year-old member asked:
What is the difference between a tetanus shot and tetanus immune globulin?
2 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. James Fergusonanswered
Pediatrics 48 years experience
Active vs passive: A tetanus shot is designed to stimulate protective antibodies that take 2-4 weeks to make and will remain active in the patient for a decade. The immune globulin provides pre-made antibodies the help immediately and last for about a month.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Deborah Ungerleideranswered
Pediatrics 38 years experience
Tetanus immune: globulin is used for treatment of tetanus, whereas a "tetanus shot" generally refers to the vaccine or immunization given preventatively ahead of time to children and adults. The immunoglobulin can also be given to try to prevent tetanus by giving it at the time of a wound with risk for tetanus. The vaccine is also given at that time, if the person does not have an up-to-date vaccine.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.5k viewsReviewed >2 years agoMerged
Last updated Apr 4, 2019
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