The Web Health

Subscribe

Gammaplex IVIG 

Generic name: immune globulin (IGIV) (intravenous) [im-MYOON-GLOB-yoo-lin]
Brand names: Bivigam, Flebogamma, Gammagard S/D, Gammaplex, Octagam,… show all 8 brands
Drug class: immune globulins

What is Gammaplex IVIG ?

Intravenous immunoglobulin is used for the treatment of primary immune deficiency. IGIV can also be used to boost platelets (blood clotting cells) in patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura. IGIV can also be used to prevent infections among people who have B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. IGIV can also be used to treat Kawasaki syndrome, preventing aneurysms caused by a weakening main artery of the heart. IGIV can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.

Side effects of Gammaplex IVIG

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue. Some side effects can occur when the injection is given. You should tell your doctor if you experience nausea, dizziness, or lightheadedness.

Gammaplex can cause severe side effects. If you experience:

  • A blood cell disorder: pale, yellowed, or dark urine; fever, confusion, or weakness.
  • Dehydration symptoms include feeling thirsty, hot, or unable to urinate. heavy sweating or dry and hot skin.
  • Kidney problems include swelling, weight gain, and a feeling of shortness of breath.
  • Blue lips, toes, or fingers are signs of lung disease.
  • Signs of new infections: severe headache with neck stiffness and eye pain;
  • Signs of blood clots: chest pain with rapid breathing; numbness, weakness, or swelling on one side, or in an arm, leg, or foot.

Side effects that may occur with Gammaplex include:

  • Joint pain and back pain
  • Fever, chills, or sweating
  • Stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea;
  • Increased blood pressure and rapid heartbeats
  • Dizziness and fatigue are symptoms of a lack of energy.
  • Stuffy nose, sinus pain;
  • Pain, swelling, irritation, or burning around the IV needle

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Report side effects by calling the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Gammaplex may cause blood clots. The risk is higher in older adults, people with heart disease, blood circulation issues, and those who have previously had blood clots. The risk of blood clots is also higher during prolonged bed rest, when using contraceptive pills, hormone replacement therapy, or while wearing an IV catheter. If you experience chest pains, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeats or numbness, weakness or swelling in your arm or leg, as well as warmth and discoloration, call your doctor immediately. The medicine you are taking can harm your kidneys. especially if you suffer from kidney disease or if you take certain medications. If you notice any symptoms of kidney disease, such as swelling or rapid weight gain and no or little urination, tell your doctor immediately.

Before you take this drug

This medicine may not work for you if you:

  • You have experienced an allergic reaction after consuming blood or immune globulins.
  • You have a deficiency of immune globulin A with antibodies to IgA.
  • You are allergic to corn.

IGIV may cause kidney or blood clot problems in certain people, particularly older adults and those with specific conditions. You should tell your doctor about:

  • Heart problems or blood circulation problems (or "thick blood")
  • A stroke or blood clot
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes;
  • Sepsis is an infectious disease.
  • If you are using estrogens (contraception pills and hormone replacement therapy),
  • If you've been in bedrest for a long time,
  • If you already have an intravenous central catheter (IV),

If you have been exposed to measles or traveled to an area with a high prevalence of this disease, you may require a dosage adjustment. Inform your doctor whether you are breastfeeding or pregnant. The immune globulin made with donated plasma may contain viruses and other infectious agents. Plasma is treated and tested to minimize the chance of contamination. However, there's still a tiny possibility that it can transmit disease. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.

How to take Gammaplex IVIG ?

IGIV injections are given into a vein once or twice every three to four weeks. This injection will be given by a healthcare professional. Gammaplex can improve blood circulation and help your kidneys work properly. It is possible that you will need to have frequent urine or blood tests. It can also affect certain tests. Inform any physician who treats you about your use of IGIV.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are unable to attend your appointment, call your doctor and ask for further instructions.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Consult your doctor prior to receiving a “live” vaccine when using IGIV. It may be that the vaccine does not protect as effectively, and it may even cause you to get sick. The live vaccines are measles (MMR), rubella, mumps (MMR), yellow fever (chickenpox), varicella (influenza), zoster, and the nasal flu vaccine (influenza).

Interaction with other drug

IGIV may harm your kidneys if you are also taking certain medications for cancer, osteoporosis, organ transplant rejection, bowel problems, high blood pressure or pain, or arthritis. Other medications, such as prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, or other products, may also affect IGIV. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using.