Boostrix Dose
Boostrix is administered as a single 0.5 mL intramuscular injection, preferably into the deltoid muscle. 1
Standard Dosing
- The dose is 0.5 mL administered intramuscularly for all age groups (≥10 years of age). 1, 2
- The preferred injection site is the deltoid muscle. 1
- Boostrix is available in prefilled disposable syringes without needles or single-dose vials. 2
Age-Specific Licensing
- Boostrix is licensed for use in persons aged ≥10 years. 1, 2
- It is NOT licensed for children younger than 10 years of age. 1, 2
- This distinguishes it from Adacel (the other Tdap vaccine), which is licensed for ages 10-64 years. 1
Single-Dose Administration
- Boostrix is licensed and recommended as a single-dose booster vaccination only. 1, 2, 3
- It is not licensed for multiple administrations in the general population. 1, 2
- After receiving Boostrix, subsequent tetanus and diphtheria protection should be maintained with Td boosters every 10 years. 2
Important Clinical Considerations
Timing Between Doses
- Boostrix is typically administered at least 5 years after the last tetanus and diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine. 2
- However, when pertussis protection is indicated, Boostrix should be administered regardless of the interval since the last tetanus or diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine. 1
- In situations with increased risk of pertussis or its complications, intervals shorter than 5 years may be used. 2
Co-administration
- Boostrix may be administered simultaneously with other vaccines at a different anatomical site. 1, 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Do not administer multiple doses of Boostrix (except in pregnant women who should receive Tdap during each pregnancy, though this is off-label use). 1
- Do not use Boostrix in children younger than 10 years - it is not licensed for this age group. 1, 2
- Do not confuse the dose with DTaP vaccines used in younger children - Boostrix contains reduced quantities of antigens compared to infant formulations. 4, 5