IVIG

Immunoglobulin G is a preparation of human derived antibodies. In some patients, conventional immunotherapy with aspirin, heparin and paternal white cell immunization may have to be supplemented with this medication. Patients at risk for developing intruauterine growth retardation, oligohydramnios, toxemia, or severe side effects of steroids, or have preexisting maternal disease are prime candidates. If you require this treatment, it is given intravenously three consecutive days monthly during pregnancy.

Immunoglobulin G is contradindicated in patients who are known to have had anaphylactic or severe systemic reaction to human immune globulin. Patients with IgA deficiency should not receive this product.

Side effects to immunoglobulin G include fever, chills, headache, nausea, malaise and back pain. Mild erythema following infiltration at the site of infusion has been reported. Laboratory tests that need to be followed while on this treatment are quantitative immunoglobulins and immunophenotype. (Source: Reproductive Immunology Associates website, 2001)