What is the recommended treatment for tetanus?

The recommended treatment for tetanus includes the administration of tetanus immune globulin (TIG), tetanus toxoid, and penicillin. Tetanus is caused by the toxin produced by Clostridium tetani bacteria, which can enter the body through wounds, particularly those that are deep or contaminated.

Tetanus immune globulin is given to neutralize any circulating toxin, while tetanus toxoid is administered to stimulate the patient's immune system to produce antibodies for future protection against the disease. Penicillin is included to help eliminate the bacteria from the body, although in some cases, other antibiotics may also be used.

These components work together to both provide immediate neutralization of the toxin and to prevent recurrence of the disease in the future. The other options provided do not address the specific needs of tetanus treatment. For instance, benzodiazepines are used for anxiety and muscle spasticity but do not treat the underlying infection or produce immunity. Antiviral medication is not applicable to tetanus, which is a bacterial infection, and antiseptics are helpful for wound care but do not have a significant role in treating the systemic effects of tetanus infection.