Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a blood product administered intravenously. It contains the pooled, polyvalent, IgG (immunoglobulin (antibody) G) extracted from the plasma of over one thousand blood donors. IVIG's effects last between 2 weeks and 3 months. It is mainly used as treatment in three major categories:
- Immune deficiencies such as X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA), hypogammaglobulinemia (primary immune deficiencies), and acquired compromised immunity conditions (secondary immune deficiencies) featuring low antibody levels.
- Autoimmune diseases, e.g. immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), and inflammatory diseases, e.g. Kawasaki disease.
- Acute infections.
Researchers are currently investigating the use of IVIG in early Alzheimer's disease, with encouraging results.
Read more about Intravenous Immunoglobulin: IVIG Use, Mechanism of Action, IVIG Notes, IVIG Dose, Complications and Side Effects