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Learn MoreIntravenous immune globulin (IVIG) is a therapy for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). It is a clear liquid given into a vein (IV).
Immune globulins are proteins made by the immune system to fight germs. IVIG is prepared using blood from blood donors.
Your child might get IVIG if they have:
In ITP, cells in the spleen destroy platelets because the platelets are coated with antibodies. Platelets are a type of blood cell that keep the body from bleeding too much.
IVIG contains antibodies that bind to the cells in the spleen. This keeps the spleen from destroying platelets. When more platelets stay in the blood, your child’s platelet count will go up.
IVIG is given into a vein by IV. The infusion takes several hours and starts at a slow rate. The rate is gradually increased as long as your child has no side effects. If your child has side effects, IVIG might be given more slowly or stopped.
Side effects of IVIG can happen during or after the treatment.
Possible side effects that can start during the treatment:
Possible side effects that usually start more than a day after treatment:
To decrease side effects, your care team will give other medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) before giving IVIG. The care team will give you medicines to use at home to decrease side effects.
Your child might have other side effects that are not listed. Tell your child’s doctor or nurse about any side effects your child has.
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Reviewed: September 2022