
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, “IVIG is used at a ‘replacement dose’ of 200–400 mg/kg body weight, given approximately 3-weekly. In contrast, ‘high dose’ IVIG (hdIVIG), given most frequently at 2 g/kg/month, is used as an ‘immunomodulatory’ agent in an increasing number of immune and inflammatory disorders.”
Our body needs immune globulin to function properly. These antibodies are proteins that your body naturally makes to help you fight off infections. Some immune systems are not able to produce these proteins naturally.
WHY WOULD SOMEONE NEED IVIG?
IVIG is typically used in two situations:
- When our bodies do not make enough antibodies the IVIG will supplement the deficiency.
- If you have developed an autoimmune disorder, such as Multiple Sclerosis or Guillain-Barré syndrome.
WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS TO IVIG?
Typically there are no side effects from receiving IVIG, but, of course, side effects are possible. Treatment is administered based upon the patient’s weight and would typically be one dose per month. This dose could be administered at one time, two times (once every other week), four times in one week, or on another schedule. It all depends on what the patient can handle.
Studies show that about half of people may experience mild to moderate side effects. These side effects will typically happen during the first dose, so adjustments are able to be made for future doses and hopefully does not continue through treatment.
These are some side effects that can happen right away: chills, fever, flushing, flu-like muscle pains or joint pains, feeling tired, having nausea, vomiting, headache, and allergic-type reactions.
It’s important to stay hydrated and helpful to take a Tylenol or Motrin prior to treatment.
HOW LONG DOES IVIG TREATMENT LAST?
Most patients will be on IVIG treatment for 6 months up to two years. It’s important to monitor the patient progress while on treatment. There are many studies that show great success with patients using IVIG.
Some even call it liquid gold for those who are suffering chronically.
Here’s a bit of an update on my health:
During the tilt test my blood pressure changed dramatically and I just about passed out. It was brief episode, but intense (cold sweats, dizziness, blacked out, almost vomited, etc).
Yes, I said it, ZERO!
I understand that I may be heading back into getting further treatment, but this is okay. I will be okay.
I have a fantastic support system and a lot of love to get me through it.I am SO much better now that I was before & I AM STRONGER THAN I KNOW.-Tommy