Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

IMMUNE GLOBULIN - INTRAVENOUS

(ih-MYOON GLOB-you-lin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Gamimune N, Gammagard, Gammar, Iveegam, Polygam, Sandoglobulin

WARNING: Though unlikely to occur, because this product is made from human plasma, it is possible it may contain substances that could cause infections. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop early signs of an infection such as persistent sore throat or fever; or yellowing eyes or skin, or dark urine. Some of these products may also cause kidney problems. Notify your doctor immediately if you notice a change in the amount of urine you discharge.

Uses

This medication is used to boost the body's natural defense system against infection in persons with a weakened immune system. It is also used to increase the blood count in persons with the blood disorder known as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

How To Use

This medication is administered by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Rapid infusion/high concentrations of this drug may result in serious blood clots. Follow manufacturer's labeling recommendation for infusion rate and concentration, especially in those with a history of stroke, heart attack, blood vessel disease, or blood clots. They are at higher risk of this side effect. Because this medication provides protection for a limited period of time (1 to 3 months), additional doses may be necessary based on your situation. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side Effects

Redness, warmth, pain and tenderness may occur at the site of injection. Fever, chills, headache, weakness and nausea may also occur. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following side effects occur: skin rash, swelling of the hands/feet/face, breathing trouble, severe headache, chest pain, leg pain/swelling, one-sided weakness, stomach/abdominal pain. Very unlikely but report immediately: vision problems, confusion, change in the amount of urine, seizures. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: blood disorders, kidney disease, diabetes, severe infections, heart problems, blood clots, any allergies. Caution is advised when used in elderly patients because this group may be more sensitive to the drug's effect. This medication should be use only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of: vaccines, drugs that affect the kidneys (e.g., amphotericin, tobramycin), "water pills" (e.g., furosemide). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Laboratory tests (kidney function) will be done to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

It is important that each dose be used as scheduled. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dose schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

This medication is stored under refrigeration as directed.