Immune Globulin (Human), Intravenous (IVIG)
Also known as: IVIG, hIVIG, IGIV, Felbogamma, Octagam, Gammaplex, Gamunex, Gammagard, Privigen, Carimune NF
**Important Information for Pet Owners:** * **What it is:** IVIG is a highly specialized human blood product made of concentrated antibodies. It is used as a "last resort" treatment for severe autoimmune diseases where the pet's immune system is attacking its own body. * **Cost:** This medication is **extremely expensive** (often thousands of dollars for a single treatment) because it is derived from human plasma donors. * **Risks:** Because it is a human protein, there is a risk of allergic reactions (including severe anaphylaxis) in dogs. It can also cause fluid overload or, rarely, kidney issues or blood clots. * **Expectations:** It is given as a very slow intravenous (IV) drip in the hospital, usually over 6 to 12 hours. While it can be life-saving, results are not guaranteed, and it is usually reserved for pets that have failed all other standard therapies.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Immune-mediated diseases (IMHA, ITP) - General
- IMHA (refractory to conventional treatment)
- Primary immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (pIMT)
- Refractory erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis, and other cutaneous adverse drug reactions
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Increased blood pressure
- Local injection site reactions (pain, tenderness)
- Anaphylaxis / Hypersensitivity reactions
- Volume overload (due to colloid-like properties)
- Thrombotic events
- Fever, chills, facial flushing, nausea (human data)
- Renal dysfunction / Acute renal failure (human data)
Cautions & contraindications
- Prior hypersensitivity reactions to human albumin or human blood products
- > **BLACK BOX WARNING (Human Label):** IVIG has been associated with renal dysfunction, acute renal failure, osmotic nephrosis, and death in humans. * **Hypersensitivity:** IVIG contains trace amounts of human albumin, which can trigger severe hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis in dogs, especially upon repeated exposure. * **Infusion Rates:** Adverse reactions are strongly associated with rapid infusion. Must be infused slowly (typically over a 6-12 hour period in dogs). * **Volume Overload:** IVIG has colloid-like properties; use with caution in patients with compromised cardiac or renal function. * **Laboratory Interference:** * *Blood Glucose:* Can cause falsely elevated readings on glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinoline quinone (GDH-PQQ) based monitors. Use glucose oxidase or other unaffected methods. * *Coombs Test:* Passively transferred antibodies may cause false-positive serological test results.
Drug interactions
- Live Vaccines: IVIG may interfere with the immune response and efficacy of the vaccine due to passively transferred antibodies.
Frequently asked questions
What is Immune Globulin (Human), Intravenous (IVIG) used for in pets?
**Important Information for Pet Owners:** * **What it is:** IVIG is a highly specialized human blood product made of concentrated antibodies. It is used as a "last resort" treatment for severe autoimmune diseases where the pet's immune system is attacking its own body. * **Cost:** This medication is **extremely expensive** (often thousands of dollars for a single treatment) because it is derived from human plasma donors. * **Risks:** Because it is a human protein, there is a risk of allergic reactions (including severe anaphylaxis) in dogs. It can also cause fluid overload or, rarely, kidney issues or blood clots. * **Expectations:** It is given as a very slow intravenous (IV) drip in the hospital, usually over 6 to 12 hours. While it can be life-saving, results are not guaranteed, and it is usually reserved for pets that have failed all other standard therapies.
Is Immune Globulin (Human), Intravenous (IVIG) safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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