Tetanus antitoxin
Tetanus antitoxin (equine origin)
Also known as: Tetanus antitoxin Behring · TAT · Tetanus antiserum
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Dosing by species
Dosing data for this drug is not yet available in the VetSheet formulary. Every other section below is complete. Consult the current product label before prescribing.
Overview
Tetanus antitoxin is an antiserum used as a preventive measure in animals at risk of developing tetanus from wounds, and in the early stages of clinical tetanus.
Clinical Pearl: It is most effective when used immediately as clinical signs appear or when severe wound contamination makes progression likely. It is less effective in established cases because it cannot displace toxin already bound to neural receptors.
Routine prophylaxis is not warranted in dogs and cats due to their very low natural risk of tetanus.
Mechanism of action
Antibodies in the antiserum bind directly to tetanus toxin (tetanospasmin) in the systemic circulation. → Neutralizes free toxin before it can enter the nervous system. → Cannot displace or neutralize toxin that has already bound to neural receptors.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Cats (due to inability to metabolize phenol preservative)
Adverse effects
- Anaphylactoid reactions
- Hypersensitivity reactions (especially with repeated doses)
Precautions
Fatal Toxicity in Cats: Avoid use in cats due to their inability to metabolize the phenol preservative found in the formulation. Anaphylaxis Risk: All antisera can produce anaphylactoid reactions, especially if the patient has previously received horse protein products. Repeated doses increase hypersensitivity risk. Have adrenaline or antihistamines readily available during administration.
Monitoring
- Signs of anaphylaxis (respiratory distress, hypotension, collapse) immediately post-administration
- Progression or resolution of tetanus clinical signs
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed following IM or SC administration; immediate availability via IV route.
Distribution
Distributed primarily within the extracellular fluid space.
Metabolism
Degraded by normal protein metabolism pathways.
Elimination
Cleared by the reticuloendothelial system.
Overdose
No specific information available. Repeated or excessive doses increase the risk of hypersensitivity and anaphylactoid reactions.
Available products
Formulations
- Injectable: 1000 IU/ml solution
Veterinary
- Tetanus antitoxin Behring 1000 IU/ml solution
Regulatory status
Primarily approved for large animals.
Withdrawal times: cattle meat 0 days
POM-V classification in the UK.
POM-V
No regulatory data for: 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store in a refrigerator (2°C - 8°C). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Client information
Tetanus antitoxin is used to neutralize the toxin produced by tetanus bacteria in contaminated wounds. It is most effective when given early, before the toxin binds to the nerves. Dogs and cats rarely get tetanus, so routine prevention is not needed.
Important: Watch closely for allergic reactions after administration, as this product is made from horse proteins. It is generally not safe for cats due to the preservatives used.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.