immune globulin - intravenous, Gamimune N, Gammagard, Gammar,

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GENERIC NAME: IMMUNE GLOBULIN - INTRAVENOUS (ih-MYOON GLOB-you-lin)

BRAND NAME(S): Gamimune N, Gammagard, Gammar, Iveegam, Polygam, Sandoglobulin

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: This medication may cause serious (rarely fatal) kidney problems. The risk is higher in those who have kidney problems, diabetes, a serious blood infection (sepsis), a certain blood problem (paraproteinemia), or a severe loss of body fluids (dehydration), as well as in those who are older than 65 years or are taking other drugs that may harm the kidneys (e.g., gentamicin). Receiving this medication more slowly or using a less concentrated form of this drug may decrease the risk. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, swelling of the hands/ankles/feet, a change in the amount/color of urine, or foamy/frothy urine.

USES: This medication is used to strengthen the body's natural defense system (immune system) to lower the risk of infection in persons with a weakened immune system. This medication is made from healthy human blood that has a high level of certain defensive substances (antibodies), which help fight infections. It is also used to increase the blood count (platelets) in persons with a certain blood disorder (idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura-ITP). Platelets are needed to stop bleeding and form blood clots.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by slow infusion into a vein by a health care professional.Your health care professional will start the medication slowly while monitoring you closely. If you have few or no side effects, the medication will be given faster. Tell your health care professional immediately if you experience any side effects such as flushing, chills, muscle cramps, back/joint pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath. The infusion may need to be stopped or given more slowly.The dosage and frequency depends on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. For immune system problems, this medication is usually given once every 3 to 4 weeks. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder. For blood problems (ITP), this medication may be given daily for 1 to 5 days the first time, with maintenance doses usually given one at a time based on your platelet count.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Keep all your medical/lab appointments.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.