Intragam Side Effects

Intragam is a sterile solution that contains human protein as well as maltose and is administered intravenously. It is indicated in patients that have primary immune deficiency syndromes. As with any medication, some negative side effects may be experienced after administering Intragam.

Function

• According to virtualmedicalcentre.com, "Intragram P consists of normal human immunoglobulin, which is usually found in the body. Immunoglobulins are proteins produced by plasma cells (white blood cells) to aid in fighting infection. They take part in various immune responses to bacteria or foreign material, including modulation of the inflammatory response and regulation of specific immune responses. Because of these and a large range of other effects, normal immunoglobulin is used for a variety of indications, including treatment of infection in immunodeficiency states and immunomodulatory therapy."

Common Side Effects

• There are several side effects commonly associated with Intragam use. Common side effects include but are not limited to headache, migraine, nausea, fever, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, facial flushing and skin rash. Using Intragam can also result in the excessive destruction of a person's red blood cells, which can lead to transient anemia. These side effects are more common among people who never before received normal human immunoglobulin.

Rare Side Effects

• Some rare side effects have been linked to Intragam use, they include fatigue, vertigo, white blood cell depletion, platelet depletion, oversleeping, muscle ache, vomiting, inflammation at the injection site and increased blood pressure. A doctor should be consulted immediately if any of these side effects are experienced.

Warnings

• Some people have experienced allergic reactions to Intragam. Widespread red swelling (angiodema), dangerously low blood pressure as well as trouble breathing and wheezing are all symptoms of an allergic reaction. Treatment will be halted immediately and reversing agents will be given to patients that experience these symptoms. Intragam should be used immediately after opening as it contains no antibacterial agents.

Dosing

• A specific dosing schedule should be designed by a doctor as the amount needed can vary from patient to patient. Most patients that receive Intragam for replacement therapy are given between 0.2 g and 0.6 g per kg of body weight every month in one single or two equal, divided doses. Patients receiving immunomodulatory therapy are usually given 2 g per kg of body weight over the course of two to five days. Those being treated for Kawasaki disease usually receive between 1.6 g and 2 g per kg of body weight in one single or two equal, divided doses spread over two to five days.