Cytogam (Cytomegalovirus Immune Globulin Intravenous Human) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 26, 2012

Cytogam

Kidney Failure »

What are the kidneys?

The kidneys play key roles in body function, not only by filtering the blood and getting rid of waste products, but also by balancing levels of electrolyte levels in the body, controlling blood pressure, and stimulating the production of red blood cells.

The kidneys are located in the abdomen toward the back, normally one on each side of the spine. They get their blood supply through the renal arteries directly from the aorta and send blood back to the heart via the renal veins to the vena cava. (The term "renal" is derived from the Latin name for kidney.)

The kidneys have the ability to monitor the amount of body fluid, the concentrations of electrolytes like sodium and potassium, and the acid-base balance of the body. They filter waste products of body metabolism, like urea from protein metabolism and uric acid from DNA breakdown. Two waste products in the blood can be measured: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) ...

Read the Kidney Failure article »

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Cytogam

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Cytogam Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

CMV IMMUNE GLOBULIN - INTRAVENOUS

(CMV ih-MYOON GLOB-you-lin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cytogam

USES: This medication is used to prevent a certain serious viral infection (cytomegalovirus-CMV) in persons having an organ transplant (kidney, heart, liver, lung, pancreas). During the transplant process, the body's defense system (immune system) is weakened to prevent the body from attacking (rejecting) the new organ. A weakened immune system increases the risk of a serious, possibly fatal infection with CMV. This medication is made from healthy human blood that has a high level of certain defensive substances (antibodies) that help fight CMV. This medication is often used with the antiviral medication ganciclovir.

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 first dose is usually given within 3 days of the transplant, followed by more doses every 2 to 4 weeks or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency depends on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Keep all your medical/lab appointments.