IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) is a medication that can be advised to help restore your antibodies if you are struggling with a medical condition that lowers your immune system.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a human plasma product administered intravenously (into a vein). Although the exact mechanism by which IVIG confers protection has yet to be elucidated, it appears analogous to the natural transfer of antibodies from a mother to her child via breast milk. An infusion center in Queens, New York City, can help you get these services.
How Effective Is IVIG for Treating Diseases?
Diseases of the immunological, infectious, and idiopathic types can all be helped by IVIG infusions. IVIG therapy has shown excellent results for an ever-expanding spectrum of disorders. The following are examples of medical diseases that call for IVIG therapy:
- Deficiencies in immunity, such as thrombocytopenia,
- Symptoms of MMN (multifocal motor neuropathy)
- CLL, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Demyelinating polyneuropathy that persists over time is called CIDP.
- The Kawasaki Syndrome
- ITP, or immune thrombocytopenic purpura,
- Syndrome of Guillain-Barré (GBS)
- Lupus
- Myositis
Diseases of the nervous system, such as myasthenia gravis and multiple sclerosis (MS).
Immunocompromised individuals should take antiviral prophylaxis against hepatitis A both before and after exposure and against measles and varicella.
Potential Harm from Intravenous Immune Globulin Infusions
Nausea or Headaches are common effects people might face. The following can help alleviate a headache or nausea:
- Hydration and sleep are essential.
- Antiemetic drugs
- Antihistamines
- NSAIDs:
- Motrin,
- Ibuprofen,
- advil, and
- naproxen (Aleve)
Infusion of Glucocorticoids and Their Effects
- Weird Cold Sweats
- Put on some warm clothes and wrap up under a soft blanket.
- Flu-like muscle pain, aches, or fever
See your doctor or nurse for more information on these potential side effects. They may also suggest adjusting the IVIG infusion rate or trying a different brand.
Rash
Most patients who received IVIG for the first time had an eczematous reaction, especially those given an exceptionally high dose.
Calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream, and antihistamines are all effective treatments for rashes. You can also try using cold compresses. For more tailored care, consult your doctor or nurse.
How does it get to you?
Now that you understand IVIG, you can focus on how it is administered. Immune globulin is administered by means of:
- Intravenous catheter placement in the periphery or
- Injecting medication into a vein,
- typically in the hand or chest.
Immune globulin therapy is another option:
- In subcutaneous (SCIG) administration, the substance is injected into subcutaneous (under the skin) adipose tissue rather than a vein.
- To prevent unwanted side effects, the IVIG treatment is administered at a steady pace specified by the doctor using an infusion pump.
Common adverse effects include headaches, exhaustion, and allergic responses; pre-medications are commonly given to lessen or prevent these.