Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)

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Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a medication made from grouped donated blood plasma that is used to reduce the risk of infection in people with weakened or impaired immune systems. IVIG contains antibodies to fight bacteria, fungi, and viruses that can cause disease.

IVIG can be used as a replacement therapy for people who have too few antibodies to effectively fight infections. For example, IVIG may be used in babies born prematurely who are at risk of complications from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. It can also be used as treatment for immune system problems, such as for those that exist at birth (congenital immunodeficiency).

Because immunoglobulin is made from donated blood, it is sometimes in short supply. It is also very expensive.

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Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

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Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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