A quadrivalent, combined, adsorbed, acellular vaccine for active immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), and invasive diseases caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). It is a sterile suspension for intramuscular injection, containing purified toxoids and a conjugate antigen adsorbed onto an aluminum adjuvant to enhance immunogenicity. It is a critical component of the National Immunization Schedule in India for primary and booster vaccination in infants and children.
Adult: Not indicated for adults. Adults require Td or Tdap formulations with reduced diphtheria and pertussis antigen content.
Note: For intramuscular use only. Shake the vial or pre-filled syringe well before use. The preferred site for infants and young children is the anterolateral aspect of the thigh. In older children, the deltoid muscle can be used. Do not administer intravenously, intradermally, or subcutaneously. Use a separate, sterile syringe and needle for each individual. Do not mix with other vaccines in the same syringe unless specifically licensed for co-administration.
The vaccine induces active immunity by stimulating the production of specific antibodies and memory B and T cells against the antigens. Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids: Inactivated forms of the exotoxins (Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Clostridium tetani) that induce neutralizing antibodies. Pertussis Toxoid: Inactivated form of the pertussis toxin from Bordetella pertussis, a key virulence factor. Haemophilus influenzae type b Conjugate Vaccine: The Hib capsular polysaccharide (polyribosylribitol phosphate, PRP) is chemically conjugated to a carrier protein (often Tetanus Toxoid). This conjugation converts the T-cell-independent PRP antigen into a T-cell-dependent antigen, eliciting a stronger, more durable immune response with robust memory, especially in infants.
Pregnancy: This specific pediatric formulation is NOT recommended for use in pregnancy. Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine (Adacel, Boostrix) for passive protection of the newborn against pertussis.
Driving: No effect. However, fever or malaise following vaccination could temporarily impair ability.
| Immunosuppressants (e.g., high-dose corticosteroids, chemotherapy, biologics like TNF-alpha inhibitors) | May diminish the immunological response to the vaccine, potentially leading to suboptimal protection. | Major |
| Other Vaccines (e.g., Rotavirus, Pneumococcal Conjugate, IPV) | Can generally be administered concomitantly at different injection sites. No clinically significant interference in immune response. Co-administration is standard practice in the UIP. | Minor |
| Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) | Increased risk of bleeding or hematoma at the injection site. Administer with caution using a fine-gauge needle and apply firm pressure. | Moderate |