Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG)

What is Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG)?

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG) is a medical treatment made from the purified antibodies (immunoglobulins) of donated human plasma, given directly into a vein through an IV line.

What are the benefits of Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG)?

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG) provides antibodies (proteins) which can help support or modulate a patient’s immune system.

This therapy can:
Strengthens the Immune System
– Provides a concentrated source of antibodies
– Helps with immune deficiencies to fight off infections more effectively.
Modulates Overactive Immune Responses
– In autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, IVIG can reduce harmful immune system activity
– Helps prevent the immune system from attacking the body’s own nerves, muscles, blood cells, or organs
Reduced Risk Compared to Some Immunosuppressive Drugs
– Does not broadly suppress the immune system like steroids or chemotherapy drugs
– Lower risk of serious infections compared to some other immunosuppressants

How does Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG) work?

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG) works by supplying the body with a concentrated mix of healthy antibodies. These antibodies help regulate the immune system in different ways, depending on the condition being treated.

Immune Modulation in Autoimmune Diseases: In autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. IVIG can:
– Block harmful antibodies by saturating the receptors they use to bind to tissues.
– Interrupt inflammatory signaling, reducing the immune system’s overreaction.
– Balance immune activity by increasing “regulatory” immune cells and reducing the activity of aggressive immune cells.

Protecting Nerves and Tissues
– In certain neurological autoimmune conditions (e.g., Guillain-Barré, CIDP, myasthenia gravis), IVIG can reduce nerve inflammation and help prevent further damage.
– This can slow disease progression and improve function.

How to prepare for Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG)?

The first step to determine your eligibility to receive Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG) is to perform a thorough physical examination and carefully consider your medical and family history.

– Medical Clearance (if needed)
If you have heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or infections, your provider may require clearance from your primary doctor or specialist.

What to expect after the procedure?

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IV IG) can be performed at home in the patient’s familiar surroundings.

Following the infusion, patients may feel tired or a bit lightheaded right after. Some patients experience a mild headache within hours of finishing, that typically self-resolves. Rarely, mild chills, flushing, or muscle aches can occur shortly after the infusion.

Staying well-hydrated before and after the infusion can help reduce side effects, as well as pre-treatment with medications (ie, acetaminophen) can make the infusion better tolerated.