Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a medication made from grouped
donated blood plasma that is used to reduce the risk of infection in people
with weakened or impaired immune systems. IVIG contains antibodies to fight
bacteria, fungi, and viruses that can cause disease.
IVIG can be used as a replacement therapy for people who have too
few antibodies to effectively fight infections. For example, IVIG may be used
in babies born prematurely who are at risk of complications from respiratory
syncytial virus (RSV) infection. It can also be used as treatment for immune
system problems, such as for those that exist at birth (congenital
immunodeficiency).
Because immunoglobulin is made from donated blood, it is sometimes
in short supply. It is also very expensive.
