What is Immune globulin (IGIM)?
It is a sterile plasma solution. It contains antibodies, which protect against infections caused by various diseases.Immune globulin intramuscular (IGIM) is used as a preventative measure for people travelling to regions where hepatitis B is prevalent. IGIM does not prevent hepatitis B.
The IGIM can also be used to prevent infection following exposure to measles or varicella (chickenpox).The IGIM vaccine should not replace routine vaccinations against poliovirus, varicella, rubella, or mumps.Immune globulin can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
IGIM side effects
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of your lips, face, or throat.
If you notice any of the following symptoms that may indicate a blood clot, call your doctor immediately.
- Chest pain and shortness of breath;
- Rapid heart rate
- A feeling of weakness or numbness on one side
- Swelling, warmth, or discoloration of the arm or leg
Some of the common side effects associated with immune globulin intramuscular include:
- Nausea;
- Fever;
- Headache;
- Tiredness;
- Pain or swelling at the injection site.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Blood clots can be caused by immune globulin intramuscular. Risk is higher in older adults, people with heart disease, blood circulation issues, and those who have experienced blood clots. Blood clots can also occur during prolonged bed rest, when using birth-control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or while wearing an IV catheter.
If you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeats or numbness, weakness, or swelling in your arm or leg, as well as warmth and discoloration, call your doctor immediately.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if you:
- You have an allergy to immune globulins or blood products.
- You have a deficiency of immune globulin A with antibodies to iga.
IGIM may cause blood clots in certain people, particularly older adults and those with certain medical conditions. Tell your doctor about:
- Blood circulation issues, heart problems or thick blood;
- A blood clot or stroke
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes;
- If you use hormones (birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy),
- If you've been on bedrest for a long time,
- If you already have an intravenous central catheter (IV),
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.The immune globulin made from human plasma can contain viruses and other infectious agents. Plasma is treated and tested to reduce the chance of contamination. However, there is a very small risk that it may transmit disease. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.
How to take Immune globulin?
The IGIM injection is given into the muscle. You can learn how to use the medication properly by yourself from a healthcare provider.Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Only prepare an injection when you're ready to administer it. If the medicine has become cloudy or changed color, or if it contains particles, do not use it. For new medicine, call your pharmacist.Do not inject IGIM in a vein or beneath the skin.You will be shown by your healthcare provider where to inject IGIM.
You'll need to have frequent blood tests. Immunoglobulin (intramuscular) can alter the results of other tests that you may need. Inform any doctor that you use immune globulin.
Do not freeze. Store it in a refrigerator. Do not use any IGIM that has expired before the date printed on the label.Each vial is only for one-time use. After one use, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside.
Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in an "as sharps" container that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of reach of pets and children.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you miss a dosage, call your doctor to get instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
You should not receive any "live" vaccinations while you are using immunoglobulin and up to six months after the last dose. It may not protect you as well or work as effectively. Live vaccines are available for measles (MMR), rubella, typhoid (Yellow Fever), varicella, varicella virus (chickenpox), and zoster.
Interaction with other drug
Immune globulins can damage your kidneys if you are also taking certain medications for cancer, infection, osteoporosis, or organ rejection. Other medicines that may harm your kidneys include Advil, Motrin, and Aleve.
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also affect immune globulin. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using.
