Intravenous Treatment

When immunoglobulin treatments are infused into the patient through a vein, the therapy is called 'intravenous immunoglobulin therapy', or 'IVIG.' IVIG infusions are fast acting in the body. The dosage will vary depending on the patient's weight and antibody levels.

Each treatment session of IVIG therapy takes about two to four hours and is usually given every three to four weeks. Patients can have the IVIG replacement therapy in hospital or, in some countries, at home where allowed by law. However, the criteria for IVIG home therapy are very strict.

Side Effects

Most patients do not have side effects from IVIG; and if side effects do occur, they are usually mild, such as a low-grade fever or headache. These symptoms can usually be eased or eliminated by infusing the immunoglobulin at a slower rate or by switching the brand of IVIG used. Less often, patients experience allergic reactions like hives or wheezing. These symptoms can be treated by taking an antihistamine.

In isolated cases, anaphylactic shock was also observed. To learn more about the side effects of the immunoglobulin that was prescribed to you, refer to the package insert that accompanies the product.