Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulins
Indications
Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulins is used for:
Passive Immunisation against Varicella (Chicken POX) infections
Adult Dose
Intramuscular
Passive immunisation against varicella infections
Adult: Dosing is based on patient's weight. ?10 kg: 125 units; 10.1-20 kg: 250 units; 20.1-30 kg: 375 units; 30.1-40 kg: 500 units; >40 kg: 625 units. To be given as a single deep IM inj; if the volume to be injected is >5 ml, dose should be divided and administered at different sites. May repeat dose at 3-wk intervals if patient is re-exposed or continuously exposed to varicella until the risk of exposure is no longer present. Dose should preferably be given within 48 hr after exposure but no later than 96 hr after exposure.
Child Dose
Intramuscular
Passive immunisation against varicella infections
Child: Dosing is based on patient's weight. ?10 kg: 125 units; 10.1-20 kg: 250 units; 20.1-30 kg: 375 units; 30.1-40 kg: 500 units; >40 kg: 625 units. To be given as a single deep IM inj; if the volume to be injected is >5 ml, dose should be divided and administered at different sites. May repeat dose at 3-wk intervals if patient is re-exposed or continuously exposed to varicella until the risk of exposure is no longer present. Dose should preferably be given within 48 hr after exposure but no later than 96 hr after exposur
Renal Dose
Administration
Contra Indications
History of hypersensitivity to immune globulins. IM admin should not be used in patients with severe thrombocytopenia or coagulation disorders.
Precautions
Caution when used in patients with a specific IgA deficiency due to possible presence of antibodies to IgA. Risk of transmitting infectious agents thus vaccination should be considered where appropriate. Caution when used in pregnant and lactating women.
Pregnancy-Lactation
Interactions
Concurrent use may interfere with the immune response to certain live vaccines.
Adverse Effects
Side effects of Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulins :
Inj site reactions e.g. local erythema, redness and pain. GI symptoms, malaise, headache, rash and respiratory symptoms. Chest pain, dyspnoea, tremor, dizziness, glossitis, buccal ulceration, facial oedema, arthralgia.
Mechanism of Action
Varicella-zoster immunoglobulins are used for passive immunisation against varicella. It is recommended for use in susceptible persons who are at high risk of developing varicella-associated complications after exposure to varicella or herpes zoster (shingles).