Daptacel ® ( DTaP) is a diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis ( whooping cough) vaccine. It is approved for use in infants and young children (under the age of seven).
(Click Daptacel Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Daptacel is made by Sanofi Pasteur, Inc.
Thimerosal Content and Other Concerns
Daptacel does not contain thimerosal (a mercury-containing preservative). Parents who are concerned about exposing their children to thimerosal can be confident that this vaccine has no thimerosal (not even trace amounts). Some parents are concerned about aluminum content of vaccines; Daptacel does contain aluminum (0.33 mg per dose).
This vaccine is not made from human fetal components, as some vaccines are. Also, unlike Sanofi Pasteur's previous version of the DTaP vaccine ( Tripedia®), Daptacel is not made using bovine (cow) components.
This vaccine contains several different components, including tetanus toxoids, diphtheria toxoids, and pertussis antigens. None of the components of this vaccine are "live," meaning that Daptacel cannot cause diphtheria, tetanus, or pertussis.
It is also important to note that the pertussis component of this vaccine is acellular (not made up of whole pertussis cells) and is much safer than the whole cell pertussis vaccine that was used in the past.
Additionally, Daptacel contains five different pertussis antigens, instead of the typical three used in previous versions of the DTaP vaccine.
Simply stated, the components of this vaccine work by "tricking" the body into thinking it has been exposed to these different infections. The body produces antibodies that will help fight the infections if future exposure occurs.
When and How to Get Vaccinated
Some general considerations include the following:
- This vaccine is typically given as a five-dose series. The first dose is typically given at two months of age, and the fifth dose is given between four and six years of age.
- Daptacel is injected into a muscle (intramuscularly), usually in the thigh for infants. In older children, the upper arm can be used.
- Children can be vaccinated if they have a minor illness, such as the common cold. However, the vaccine should be postponed if the child is moderately or severely ill.
Dosing Information
There is only one standard recommended dosage for this vaccine, although there is some flexibility in the vaccination schedule.
As with any vaccine, Daptacel may cause side effects. However, not everyone who receives the vaccine will experience side effects. In fact, most children tolerate it well, with only minor side effects (if any).
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the most common side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Fussiness or irritability
- Drowsiness
- Lethargy
- Inconsolable crying
- Injection site reactions such as pain, swelling, or redness
- Fever.
(Click Daptacel Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk to a healthcare provider before your child receives this vaccine if your child has:
- An immune-suppressing condition such as HIV or AIDS, diabetes, or cancer
- A bleeding disorder
- Had any sort of a reaction to any vaccine in the past
- A moderate or severe illness
- A brain or nervous system disorder
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Make sure to tell the healthcare provider about all the medicines your child is taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Storage Methods for Daptacel
Daptacel should be stored in the refrigerator; it should never be frozen.
The vaccine is available in 0.5 mL single-use vials. The vial stoppers are made of natural latex rubber (which may be a concern for individuals with latex allergies).
Is There a Generic Version of Daptacel?
|
|
