Boostrix

Boostrix is a type of vaccine used to help prevent diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It is used in people age 10 to 64 years old and works by tricking the body into thinking it has been exposed to one of these diseases, thereby forcing the body to produce the antibodies needed to fight these conditions. Potential side effects include headaches, fatigue, and swelling.

What Is Boostrix?

Boostrix® (Tdap vaccine) is a vaccine approved for use as a "booster" to help prevent diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough) in people age 10 to 64 years old.
 
(Click Boostrix Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Thimerosal Content and Other Concerns

Boostrix does not contain thimerosal (a mercury-containing preservative). Individuals who are concerned about exposure to thimerosal can be confident that this vaccine has no thimerosal (not even trace amounts). Some people are concerned about aluminum content of vaccines; Boostrix contains no more than 0.39 mg of aluminum per dose.
 
This vaccine is not made from human fetal components, as some vaccines are. It is, however, made from bovine (cow) components.
 

Who Makes This Medicine?

Boostrix is made by GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals and Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics for GlaxoSmithKline.
 

How Does It Work?

Boostrix contains diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and pertussis antigens. Toxoids are bacterial toxins that have been detoxified. Although the toxoids will not cause the actual disease, they stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies to the toxin.
 
"Antigen" is the generic term for substances that cause the body to produce an immune response and antibodies. Boostrix contains three different pertussis antigens that have been detoxified.
 
Basically, the antigens and toxoids in Boostrix "trick" the body into thinking it has been exposed to diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. The body produces antibodies that will help fight these diseases if future exposure occurs.
 

When and How to Take Boostrix

Some general considerations for those using this drug include the following:
 
  • This vaccine is given as a single, one-time injection into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm, where most immunizations are given.
     
  • In general, the vaccine should only be given if at least five years have passed since the last DTaP or Td vaccine has been given. In some cases, the vaccine can be given sooner.
     
  • The healthcare provider should shake the vial well before using Boostrix.
     
  • Multiple doses of this vaccine are not typically recommended. After an individual receives the Boostrix vaccine, all future boosters should be given as the Td (tetanus and diphtheria) vaccine.
     

Dosing Information

There is only one standard recommended dosage for this vaccine. However, because several similar vaccines are given during childhood and adolescence, it can be confusing to know when exactly Boostrix should be given.
 
(Click Boostrix Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Boostrix

As with any vaccine, Boostrix may cause side effects. However, not everyone who receives the vaccine will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Some of the most common reactions include but are not limited to:
 
  • Pain
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Redness
  • Swelling.
     
(Click Boostrix Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Boostrix can potentially interact with a few medications or other vaccines (see Boostrix Drug Interactions).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to receiving Boostrix if you have:
 
  • Guillain-Barré syndrome
  • A recent history of stroke
  • An immune-suppressing condition, such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer
  • Had any sort of a reaction to any vaccine in the past
  • Epilepsy or any other nervous system disorder
  • A moderate to severe illness
  • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Boostrix Warnings and Precautions to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

How Should This Medication Be Stored?

Boostrix should be stored in the refrigerator. It should not be frozen.
 

Forms Available

The vaccine is available in two forms: standard 0.5-mL single-dose vials or 0.5-mL prefilled syringes, which are packaged without needles.
 

Is There a Generic Version of Boostrix?

This vaccine is not available in generic form (see Generic Boostrix).
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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