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Combined vaccine (dTaP/Tdap)

Diphtheria with tetanus and pertussis vaccine

Brand names: Boostrix-IPV (without polio), various dTaP/Tdap

This is a combined vaccine providing active immunisation against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, forming part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule, often combined with further antigens.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It contains toxoids and pertussis antigens that stimulate protective antibody responses against the respective toxins and the pertussis organism.

Prescribing in practice

  • It should be deferred in those with an acute febrile illness and is contraindicated where there has been a confirmed anaphylactic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine component.
  • Acellular pertussis-containing formulations are used in the UK schedule, with the specific product chosen according to the child's age and the national programme.
  • Common reactions include local redness and swelling, fever and irritability, which are usually self-limiting.

Monitoring

Observe for immediate hypersensitivity after administration and review the routine schedule for timely completion of the primary course and boosters.

Counselling the patient

  • Mild fever, irritability and soreness at the injection site are common and settle within a day or two.
  • Paracetamol can be used if your child develops a fever or discomfort after vaccination.
  • Keep a record so the next doses in the schedule are given on time.

Evidence & guidelines

Combined diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccination is delivered through the UK routine childhood immunisation programme.

Reference: UKHSA Green Book; NHS England immunisation schedule; Confirm identity and dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC) and NICE. Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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