Boostrix DPT Vaccine for Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus Prefilled Syringes 0.5 mL x 10/Box (RX) ***Requires Refrigeration

Boostrix DPT Vaccine is a combined immunization product designed to protect individuals from three serious bacterial infections: Diphtheria, Pertussis (whooping cough), and Tetanus. This vaccine is typically administered as part of childhood immunization schedules and booster doses for adolescents and adults. It is conveniently supplied in prefilled syringes, ensuring precise dosing and ease of administration for healthcare providers.

Indications:

• Diphtheria: Caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a bacterium that produces a toxin leading to severe sore throat, breathing issues, heart failure, and even death.
  
• Pertussis (Whooping Cough): Caused by Bordetella pertussis, it is a highly contagious respiratory disease characterized by severe coughing spells which can result in difficulty breathing, vomiting, and disturbed sleep.
  
• Tetanus (Lockjaw): Resulting from a toxin produced by Clostridium tetani found in soil and dust, causing painful muscle contractions, primarily in the neck and jaw muscles.

Vaccine Composition:

Boostrix is formulated with:

• Diphtheria toxoid 
  
• Tetanus toxoid 
  
• Acellular pertussis components (pertussis toxoid, filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA), and pertactin (PRN))

These components have been purified to ensure safety and efficacy, and they work by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against these diseases without causing the diseases themselves.

Dosage and Administration:

• Dosage: Each syringe delivers a single 0.5 mL dose of the vaccine.
  Administration: Intramuscular injection, preferably in the deltoid muscle.
  
• Schedule: Used for primary immunization series in infants, booster doses for adolescents, and adults requiring catch-up vaccinations or in response to infection risks.

Storage and Handling:

• Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. 
  
• Protect from light to maintain efficacy.
  
• Always check the expiration date and do not use expired vaccine.

Precautions and Contraindications:

• Contraindications: Severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of any diphtheria toxoid, tetanus toxoid, or pertussis-containing vaccine, or to any component of Boostrix.
  
• Precautions: Individuals with moderate or severe acute illness should defer vaccination until recovery. 
  
•  Patients with a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome within 6 weeks of a prior vaccine containing tetanus toxoid.
  
• Arthus-type hypersensitivity reactions.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include, but are not limited to:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  
• Mild fever
  
• Headache
  
• Fatigue
  
• Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
• Serious side effects are rare but might include severe allergic reactions.

Usage Considerations:

• Healthcare providers should review patient's medical history for possible contraindications and allergies.
  
• Patients/guardians should be informed about the benefits and risks of vaccination.
  
• Maintain accurate records of vaccination including lot number and date of administration.

Boostrix DPT Vaccine serves as a critical component in the prevention of Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus, highly recommended by health authorities. Its prefilled syringe format offers convenience, accuracy, and ease of use, making it an essential product for vaccination programs.