DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

• Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous

Category

• Immunizing agent (passive)

Description

Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (Human) (Vac-SIN-ee-a im-yoon GLOB-u-lin IN-tra-ve-nas )is used to treat infections caused by the vaccinia virus.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:

• Parenteral
• Injection (U.S. and Canada)

Before Using This Medicine

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human), the following should be considered:

Allergies—Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human) or other human immunoglobulins. Also tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.

Pregnancy—Studies on effects in pregnancy have not been done in either humans or animals.

Breast-feeding— It is not known whether vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human) passes into breast milk. Although most medicines pass into breast milk in small amounts, many of them may be used safely while breast-feeding. Mothers who are taking this medicine and who wish to breast-feed should discuss this with their doctor.

Children—Studies on this medicine have been done only in adult patients, and there is no known specific information comparing use of vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human) in children with use in other age groups.

Older adults—Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human) in the elderly with use in other age groups.

Other medicines—Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human), it is especially important that your doctor and pharmacist know if you are taking any of the following:

• Vaccines made from a live virus —Vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human) may interfere with how well the vaccine will work

Other medical problems—The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human). Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Vaccinia keratitis—Use is not recommended

• Hyperviscosity, known or suspected—May increase chance for serious side effects

• Immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency—Increased risk for allergic reaction

Proper Use of This Medicine

Make sure you discuss the risks and benefits of this medicine with your doctor.

Report all infections thought to have been possibly transmitted by this product by having your doctor call Cangene Corporation at 1-877-CANGENE.

Dosing—The dose of vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human) will be different for different patients. The following information includes only the average doses of vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (human).

• For injectable dosage form:
  • For treatment and/or medical problems due to vaccinia virus
    • Adults—Dose is based on weight and will be determined by your doctor.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Precautions While Using This Medicine

Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had a reaction to a vaccination.

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.

Developed: 12/07/2005

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