Which medication is indicated for tetanus treatment?

Which medication is indicated for tetanus treatment?

• A. Chlorpromazine
• B. Haloperidol
• C. Ziprasidone
• D. Paliperidone

Answer: (A)

Controlling spasms and autonomic instability is a key part of tetanus management, used to calm the patient and reduce dangerous muscle rigidity while definitive therapies are given. Chlorpromazine, a low‑potency phenothiazine, has strong sedative and antiemetic properties and can help dampen central motor excitability, which translates to less severe muscle spasms and agitation. It also contributes to stabilizing autonomic symptoms that often accompany severe tetanus. Among the listed agents, chlorpromazine provides this level of symptomatic relief, whereas the other antipsychotics—being more focused on dopamine blockade with less sedative benefit—do not offer the same degree of calming effect and can carry risks that are problematic in tetanus (such as extrapyramidal symptoms or QT concerns). So, chlorpromazine is the most appropriate choice for managing tetanus symptoms in this context.

Controlling spasms and autonomic instability is a key part of tetanus management, used to calm the patient and reduce dangerous muscle rigidity while definitive therapies are given. Chlorpromazine, a low‑potency phenothiazine, has strong sedative and antiemetic properties and can help dampen central motor excitability, which translates to less severe muscle spasms and agitation. It also contributes to stabilizing autonomic symptoms that often accompany severe tetanus. Among the listed agents, chlorpromazine provides this level of symptomatic relief, whereas the other antipsychotics—being more focused on dopamine blockade with less sedative benefit—do not offer the same degree of calming effect and can carry risks that are problematic in tetanus (such as extrapyramidal symptoms or QT concerns). So, chlorpromazine is the most appropriate choice for managing tetanus symptoms in this context.