What is GamaSTAN (IGIM)?
It is a sterile plasma solution. It contains antibodies, which protect against infections caused by various diseases. Immune-globulin Intramuscular is used as a preventative measure against hepatitis A for people traveling to regions where the disease is prevalent. IGIM does not prevent hepatitis B. The IGIM can also be used to prevent infection following exposure to rubella, measles, or varicella. 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.
Side effects of GamaSTAN (IGIM)
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to face lips throat (false positive). Seek medical assistance immediately.
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
- Numbness or weakness on one side of the body
- Swelling, warmth or discoloration in arms or legs
Gamastan can cause the following side effects:
- 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. Contacting the FDA in regards to potential side effects is easy at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Valtrex, Zovirax, Foscarnet, and immune globulin intramuscular
Warnings
GamaSTAN may cause blood clots. The risk is higher in older adults, people with blood clots or heart problems, and those who have blood circulation issues. Blood clots can also occur during prolonged bed rest, when using birth-control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or if you have 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 experienced an allergic reaction 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:
- Heart issues, poor blood circulation issues or "thick blood": all may arise in relation to these organ systems.
- A stroke or a blood clot.
- 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 physician immediately if you become 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 still some risk. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.
How to take GamaSTAN (IGIM)?
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, ask for assistance from either your physician or pharmacist. Prepare an injection only when it is time to give 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. GamaSTAN may affect other medical tests that you need. Inform any doctor that you see about your use of immune globulin. Do not freeze. Store it in the fridge. Do not use any IGIM that has expired before the date printed on the label. Each vial is only for one-time use.Once used, discard it even if there is still medication within. Once used, store needles or syringes in an approved sharps container that prevents punctures. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of the reach of pets and children.
What happens if I miss the dose?
In case of missed dosages, be sure to contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible for 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, rotavirus (Chickenpox), Shingles, and nasal flu (Influenza).
Interaction with other drug
The immune globulin may harm your kidneys if you are also taking certain medications for cancer, osteoporosis, organ rejection, bowel disorders, or high blood pressure. Other medications, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, can also affect immune globulin. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using.
