Antitetanic serum is a serum used for the prevention or immediate treatment of tetanus, especially in cases of deep or contaminated wounds. It contains pre-formed antibodies that neutralize the toxins of Clostridium tetani bacteria and prevent them from affecting the nervous system. It is administered intramuscularly or intravenously, depending on the patient's condition and the severity of the wound. This serum is a rapid means of providing immediate protection, especially in emergency situations where vaccination has not been administered or where a long time has passed since the last dose.
The importance of Antitetanic serum lies in its ability to provide rapid but temporary immunity, making it suitable for use with a vaccine that provides long-term protection. Doctors usually administer it with the tetanus vaccine to ensure comprehensive protection, as the serum prevents the spread of toxins in the body within a short period after injury, thus reducing the risk of convulsions and serious complications associated with the disease.