ADAP drugs: IVIG

IVIG (Gamma globulin, immune globulin,
intravenous immunoglobulin, Gammagard)

Drug description

IVIG is a solution of globulins containing antibodies normally present in adult human blood. Globulins are simple proteins that provide immunity against disease. A protein is made up of several amino acids, which are the microscopic building blocks that make up all cells. Many globulins are inherited, so that the body is able from birth to fight off bacteria and other infections. IVIG is used for maintenance treatment of people who are unable to produce sufficient amounts of immune globulin antibodies. Children who are HIV+ have impaired primary and secondary responses to infection. IVIG can help prevent or treat infections such as meningitis, bacteremia, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, acute sinusitis, pneumonia, acute mastoiditis, or abscess of an internal organ.

Side effects
Side effects have not been well defined in HIV+ people, but are rare in the general population. Some pain, tenderness and muscle stiffness generally occur at the injection site and last for several hours. Headache following infusion is a possible side effect.

Dosage
IVIG is injected intravenously or intramuscularly. In studies, children were given 400 mg/kg once a month as preventive treatment for serious bacterial infections. Adults with thrombocytopenia were treated with 1 g/kg on days 1 and 2 and 1 g/kg on day 15. Thrombocytopenia means a decreased number of blood platelets which are cells important for blood clotting.

How long it may take to work
Children in the study were followed for 17 months with good response. Response to treatment in adults with HIV-related thrombocytopenia was seen in 8 days.

Managing side effects
Most adverse reactions appear to be related to the rate of administration rather than the dose and may be relieved by decreasing the rate of administration or by temporarily stopping the infusion. Oral antihistamines and analgesics may help with headaches, and have been used before beginning treatment in individuals who have headaches following infusion.

This information is specific to the use of this medication for HIV-related conditions. For additional information about this drug for other conditions, refer to: www.nursespdr.com/ and www.healthanswers.com/Library/library_fset.asp

The drug descriptions on these pages are intended for informational purposes only. The Network does not promote or endorse the use of any specific treatment for any health-related condition. The medications described here can only be dispensed by a licensed health care professional. The information may have changed since these pages were updated, though every effort is made to keep these pages current. Please contact The Network at (800) 734-7104 to make sure you have the most up-to-date information

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