IVIG or Intravenous Immunoglobulin is the blood product that is administered intravenously. This blood product comes with the polyvalent, pooled, IGG antibodies that are extracted from plasma of more than a thousand donors of blood. The effects of IVIG may last between two weeks and three months.
The 3 Categories of IVIG
Basically, it has been utilized as a medication in three categories of major disease, including:
1. Immune Deficiencies
That include the primary immune deficiencies namely hypogammaglobulinemia, X-linked agammaglobulinemia and secondary immune deficiencies including compromised acquired immunity conditions that feature low levels of antibody.
2. Acute Infections
3. Autoimmune Diseases
Such as inflammatory diseases (Kawasaki disease) and immune thrombocytopenia diseases.
The popular market names of Intravenous Immunoglobulin include Gammagard, Privigen, Gamunex and Flebogamma.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin Side Effects
IVIG side effects might also occur just like any other forms of medications. These side effects are more expected to take place if you are receiving the medication for the first time. The most widespread side effects the infusion of this medication include fever, shivering, chills, nausea, fatigue, headache, vomiting, pain in extremity, dizziness, cough, rash, rapid heart rate, hives, itching, and migraine.
A patient taking the medication might experience some of these IVIG side effects. These side effects might take place up to 72hrs after its infusion. However, it is important to let your doctor know about the occurrence of any of these side effects. It is vital to have a word with your medical provider regarding the possible things to occur with the administration of the medication. Your nurse, doctor, or any other healthcare expert may assist you in preparing for the treatment and inform you about the proper ways on how to manage such potential side effects. Moreover, support and resources are available helping you comprehend with the treatment.
IVIG medication is administered for treating patients around two years old and older, particularly the ones with PI (Immunodeficiency) diseases. There are several types of PI. IVIG medication contains antibodies that are gathered from fit individuals replacing the lost antibodies within PI patients. The medication is also applied for treating patients suffering from MMN (Multifocal Motor Neuropathy), which is an uncommon disease that leads to weakening of muscle that may worsen over time.
Essential Risk Details
Stop immediately the infusion and get in touch with your doctor once you experience one or more of the following symptoms:
1. Thrombosis or Blood Clots Symptoms
Which might include swelling and/or pain of the leg or arm with warm sensation around the affected area, lump, or redness or discoloration of the leg or arm. Unexplained breath shortness, chest discomfort or pain which worsens with deep breathing, baffling rapid pulse, weakness and numbness of the side part of the body may also be included in the side effects.
1. Kidney Problem Symptoms
Which might include unexpected weight gain, legs swelling or reduced urination.
1. Symptoms of Severe Allergic Reaction
Including swelling inside the throat or mouth, itching, skin rash, hives, wheezing, dizziness, fainting, or trouble breathing.
Some other serious symptoms may include vomiting, drowsiness, light sensitivity, red or brown urine, painful movements of the eye, fever, nausea, stiff neck and a lot more.
