The Food and Drug Administration recently approved the Adacel (Tdap) vaccine to be administered as soon as 8 years after a previous dose. Adacel, manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur, provides immunity to tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. The vaccine is approved for patients ages 10-64, and is available in a syringe made without natural rubber latex.
The current CDC recommendations for Tdap are as follows:
- Adolescents should receive a single dose, preferably at age 11 or 12
- All pregnant women should receive a single dose during pregnancy, preferably between weeks 27 and 36. By receiving this vaccine, pregnant mothers pass antibodies to their babies, reducing the risk of whooping cough.
- Adults should receive a single dose of Tdap followed by a booster Td every 10 years.
FDA approval was based on clinical data from a study that showed no significant differences in adverse events when adults received Adacel versus Td 8-12 years after a previous dose of Adacel. The approval of Adacel administration every 8 years provides more flexibility for physicians in both vaccine purchasing decisions and immunizations scheduling. Sanofi has provided study results to the CDC for consideration in future recommendations.
For more information or to purchase Adacel or any other immunization, visit our website or send us an email.
