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Immune globulin
im-MYOON GLOB-yoo-lin   Audio




Brand Name: Gamimune N, Gammagard S/D, Gamunex
Drug Class: Opportunistic Infection and Other Drugs

Intravenous immune globulin, also known as IVIG, is a preparation of antibodies collected from human blood donors. These antibodies (immune globulins) can be delivered into the body to help fight certain infections and to help treat some immune system diseases.


HIV/AIDS-Related Uses


Immune globulin was approved by the FDA on December 27, 1993, for the prevention of serious bacterial infections in children with HIV.


Dosage Form/Administration


Immune globulin comes in liquid form and is given by intravenous infusion into a vein.


Contraindications


Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.


Possible Side Effects


Along with its desired effects, intravenous immune globulin can cause some unwanted effects. Serious side effects of this medicine include troubled breathing, fast or pounding heartbeat, burning sensation in the head, bluish coloring of lips or nail beds, faintness or lightheadedness, sudden or severe tiredness or weakness, and wheezing. Individuals should tell a doctor if they have any of these side effects.

Other side effects may not be serious and may lessen or disappear with continued use of the medicine. Less serious side effects include joint pain; backache or pain; headache; general feeling of discomfort or illness; muscle pain; nausea; vomiting; chest or hip pain; leg cramps; redness, rash, or pain at injection site; and hives. Individuals should tell a doctor if these side effects continue or are bothersome.


Drug and Food Interactions


A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.


Clinical Trials


Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Immune globulin.


Manufacturer Information


Immune globulin
  American Red Cross
  National Headquarters Biomedical Services
  1616 Ft. Myer Drive 17th Floor
  Arlington,  VA  22209-8746
  (800) 446-8883
    

Gamimune N
  Bayer Corporation
  400 Morgan Lane
  West Haven,  CT  06516-4175
  (800) 288-8371
    

Gammagard S/D
  Baxter Healthcare Corporation
  Hyland Immuno Division
  550 North Brand Blvd
  Glendale,  CA  91203
  (800) 423-2090
    

Gamunex
  Bayer Corporation
  400 Morgan Lane
  West Haven,  CT  06516-4175
  (800) 288-8371
    



Updated May 17, 2007