Abstract

A REVIEW ON TOXOID VACCINES

K. Malleswari*, Dr. D. Rama Brahma Reddy, T. Charishma, T. Om Satya Vaishnavi, T. Manasa rani

ABSTRACT

Toxoid vaccines are a specialized class of immunizations designed to protect against diseases by bacterial exotoxins. Unlike traditional vaccines that use live or inactivated pathogens, toxoid vaccines use chemically or thermally inactivated bacterial toxins (toxoids) that retain immunogenicity but lack toxicity. These vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that neutralize the natural toxins, thereby preventing disease. Notable examples include vaccines for tetanus and diphtheria, which have dramatically reduced the global incidence of these diseases. The development of toxoid vaccines dates back to the early 20th century, with major milestones including the discovery of diphtheria and tetanus antitoxins and the introduction of DTP combination vaccines. Toxoid vaccines are known for their safety, stability, and proven efficacy when administered with booster doses. However, they have limitations, including the need for multiple doses, weaker cellular immune responses, and limited effectiveness to only toxin-mediated bacterial infections. The production process involves toxin identification, purification, inactivation, and rigorous testing through clinical trials and regulatory reviews. Tetanus and diphtheria vaccines are widely used and recommended throughout life, including during pregnancy, to prevent neonatal and maternal infections. Pertussis vaccines, often combined with toxoid vaccines, further enhance protection against respiratory infections. Despite some side effects like local inflammation and rare allergic reactions, toxoid vaccines remain a cornerstone of public health, offering targeted, long-lasting protection against some of the most harmful bacterial toxins known to medicine.

Keywords: Toxoid vaccines, bacterial exotoxins, inactivated bacterial toxins, tetanus, diphtheria, dtp combination vaccine.