The Product

• IVIG 3g in 50ml (6% solution) l0ml aliquots available for neonatal use.
• Contains antibodies to normal range of infections in New Zealand.
• Prepared by cold ethanol fractionation and is free of HIV, and Hepatitis B and C virus transmission risks.
• pH 4 for IV use only.

Complications/Problems

• Adults sometime react to IVIG with fall in blood pressure. Baby should be watched carefully particularly at the start of the infusion.
• Most patients have no side effects at all.
• Low pH should be considered in sick babies with acid/base problems.  Undiluted it is hyperosmolar. Should be given over 1 hour or longer.
  • If high osmolarity or low pH are a potential problem may be given diluted with equal volumes of saline, ½ normal saline or 5% dextrose.

Indications

1. Sepsis in Compromised Neonates
   • IVIG 750mg/kg = 12.5ml/kg infused over 2 -3 hours.
   • May be repeated after 3 -5 days if inadequate response./li>
2. Treatment of Immune Thrombocytopenia
   • IVIG 2g/kg in divided doses over 4 days, i.e, 0.5g/kg/day = 8.3ml/kg given over a 3 hour period each day.

Ordering

• After consultation with ARBC Medical Officer, write Blood Products request form with patient's name, number, date of birth, birthweight and present weight.

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References

For further details see the Big Blue Blood Bank Book.