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 Ferguson answered
Pediatrics 46 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.
3487 viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Deborah Ungerleider answered
Pediatrics 36 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.
3483 viewsReviewed >2 years agoMerged
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Similar questions
A 35-year-old member asked:
How are tetanus shot and tetanus immune globulin different?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in

Dr. Arnold Beresh answered
Podiatry 41 years experience
No difference: No difference.
4637 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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Last updated Apr 4, 2019
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