immune globulin – intramuscular, Baygam, Gamastan, Gammar
WARNING: Rarely, this medication may cause serious blood clots. You may be at increased risk if you are older, severely dehydrated, have a catheter close to your heart, or have a history of blood clots or heart disease. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Adequate hydration before and after receiving this medication may help reduce your risk of blood clots. Get medical help right away if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, unusual sweating, sudden dizziness, pain or swelling in the arm or leg, sudden severe headache, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, or confusion.
USES: This medication provides protection against certain virus infections and is used to strengthen the body’s immune system in individuals with immunoglobulin deficiency. It is made from healthy human blood and helps fight infections. Routine vaccination is usually the best way to protect against infection. Talk to your doctor about a recommended vaccination schedule.
HOW TO USE: This medication is injected into a muscle as directed by your doctor. The dosage and schedule depend on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. Large doses should be divided into multiple injections and given at separate sites. This medication is most effective when given as soon as possible after exposure to certain infections. If you are traveling to an area where hepatitis A is common, this medication may be given along with the hepatitis A vaccine. Do not receive live virus vaccines at the same time as immune globulin. If you are administering this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your healthcare professional. Keep all medical/lab appointments.
SIDE EFFECTS: Muscle stiffness, redness, pain, and tenderness at the injection site may occur. Fever, chills, headache, and joint pain may also occur. Tell your doctor if any of these effects persist or worsen. Rarely, this product may contain substances that could cause infections. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection such as persistent sore throat, fever, yellowing eyes/skin, or dark urine. Seek medical help right away if you experience a serious allergic reaction or other serious side effects.
PRECAUTIONS: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to this medication or other immunoglobulin products, or if you have any other allergies. Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have a certain immune system problem or kidney disease. Inform your doctor of any recent or planned immunizations/vaccinations. Before surgery, inform your doctor of all medications you use. Use this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly needed.
QUESTION
DRUG INTERACTIONS: This medication may interact with drugs that harm the kidneys. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: Additional doses may be necessary based on the situation. Discuss this with your doctor.
STORAGE: Store in the refrigerator between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Do not freeze. Discard any unused portion. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.
