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Introduction
Human immunoglobulin (pH4) for intravenous injection, commonly known as IVIG, is a blood plasma derived product used for treating certain health conditions. IVIG helps boost the immune system by providing antibodies from healthy blood donors. In this article, we will discuss what IVIG is, its uses, mode of action, side effects and other important details.
What is IVIG?
IVIG, or intravenous immunoglobulin, is a blood plasma product containing concentrated immunoglobulins or antibodies which are extracted from pools of at least a thousand healthy blood donations. The immunoglobulins present in IVIG help provide passive immunity to patients who cannot produce adequate antibodies on their own or whose immune systems attack their own healthy cells and tissues. IVIG is prepared using a process called fractionation which separates the various components in blood plasma. The final IVIG product is a sterile solution of concentrated immunoglobulins with a neutral pH level of 4-4.5. It comes in pre-filled syringes or vials ready for intravenous administration.
Approved Uses of IVIG
IVIG has been approved by regulatory bodies for treating a number of primary and secondary immune deficiency conditions. Some key uses include:
– Primary antibody deficiencies: IVIG replacement therapy is used for patients having recurrent bacterial infections who are deficient in antibodies. This includes conditions like agammaglobulinemia, common variable immunodeficiency etc.
– Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP): IVIG helps reduce nerve damage and improve muscle weakness in patients with this rare neurological disorder.
– Kawasaki disease: IVIG along with aspirin is used to reduce the risk of coronary artery complications in children with this acute inflammatory condition.
– Bone marrow transplant: IVIG provides immune support and prevents infections in patients who have undergone bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.
IVIG is also used off-label for other autoimmune and inflammatory conditions like Guillain-Barre syndrome, myasthenia gravis, dermatomyositis, multifocal motor neuropathy, etc based on its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
Mechanism of Action
IVIG works through multiple mechanisms to boost the immune system and exert anti-inflammatory effects. Upon intravenous infusion, the immunoglobulins present in IVIG bind to Fc receptors on immune cells like B-cells, dendritic cells, monocytes and macrophages. This modulates their immune functions leading to reduced activation of complement system, decreased antibody production, attenuated inflammatory responses and suppression of autoantibody pathogenic effects. IVIG also neutralizes certain toxins and pathogens by providing antibodies against them. All these mechanisms together help IVIG benefit patients with immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases and other inflammatory disorders.
Safety and Side Effects
Although IVIG is generally well-tolerated, like any intravenous treatment it may cause mild to moderate infusion-related side effects in some patients. The most common side effects seen include headache, nausea, chills, low grade fever, fatigue and body aches occurring during or post infusion. Serious side effects are rare but may include anaphylactic reactions, renal impairment, thromboembolic events like pulmonary embolism and stroke. IVIG should not be given to patients with Immunoglobulin A deficiency due to the risk of anaphylaxis from trace amounts of IgA present in the product. Patient monitoring is important during and after IVIG infusion. Those with risk factors should receive pre-medication to prevent side effects. The benefits of IVIG therapy usually outweigh potential risks when given under medical supervision for approved conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, human immunoglobulin or IVIG is a valuable medication derived from plasma which provides passive immunity to patients with certain immune deficiencies and autoimmune diseases. With its various mechanisms of action, IVIG helps boost antibody levels and dampen excessive immune responses. While generally well-tolerated, IVIG therapy requires medical oversight due to potential risks. Understanding its approved uses, mode of action and safety profiles can help optimize treatment benefit for suitable patients. IVIG serves as an important treatment option for managing conditions where the immune system causes harm.
*Note:
- Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
- We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
