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In this Article

• What is immune globulin (Gammagard)?
• What are the possible side effects of immune globulin?
• What is the most important information I should know about immune globulin?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before using immune globulin?
• How is immune globulin given?
• What happens if I miss a dose?
• What happens if I overdose?
• What should I avoid while using immune globulin?
• What other drugs will affect immune globulin?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using immune globulin?

You should not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an immune globulin or if you have immune globulin A (IgA) deficiency with antibody to IgA.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use immune globulin intravenous:

• kidney disease;
• diabetes (especially if you use insulin);
• a history of stroke or blood clot;
• heart disease or high blood pressure;
• a condition called paraproteinemia; or
• if you are over 65 years old.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether immune globulin is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known if immune globulin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is immune globulin given?

Use immune globulin intravenous exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Immune globulin is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be shown how to use your medicine at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of needles, IV tubing, and other items used in giving the medicine.

Immune globulin intravenous should not be injected into a muscle or under the skin.

Immune globulin intravenous is usually given every 3 to 4 weeks. Your dosing schedule may be different. Follow your doctor's instructions.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition and is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney function may also need to be checked. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Using immune globulin can cause you to have unusual results with certain blood glucose tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using immune globulin.

Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has any particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription. Throw away any unused medicine that is left over after injecting your dose.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

Some brands of immune globulin should be stored in a refrigerator, while others can be kept at room temperature. Follow the directions on your prescription label or ask your pharmacist if you have questions about how to store the medication. Do not allow the medicine to freeze.