GAMMAR IV

Drug Name: GAMMAR IV

GAMMAR IV DESCRIPTION:
IMMUNE GLOBULIN - INTRAVENOUS (ih-MYOON GLOB-you-lin)

COMMON GAMMAR IV BRAND NAME(S):
Gamimune N, Gammagard, Gammar, Iveegam, Polygam, Sandoglobulin

GAMMAR IV SIDE EFFECTS:
Redness, warmth, pain and tenderness may occur at the site of injection. Fever, chills, headache, weakness and nausea may also occur. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience skin rash, swelling of the hands, feet or face or breathing trouble while taking GAMMAR IV. Very unlikely but report vision problems, confusion, change in amount of urine and seizures. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE GAMMAR IV:
GAMMAR IV: GAMMAR IV is administered by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Because GAMMAR IV provides protection for a limited period of time (1 to 3 months), additional doses may be necessary based on your situation. Discuss this with your doctor.

GAMMAR IV WARNING:
Though unlikely to occur, because this product is made from human plasma, it is possible it may contain substances that could cause infections. Notify your doctor immediately if yoU develop early signs of an infection such as persistent sore throat or fever; or yellowing eyes or skin, or dark urine. Some of these products may also cause kidney problems. Notify your doctor immediately if you notice a change in the amount of urine you discharge.

GAMMAR IV USES:
GAMMAR IV is used to boost the body's natural defense system against infection in persons with a weakened immune system. It is also used to increase the blood count in persons with the blood disorder known as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

GAMMAR IV PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of blood disorders, kidney disease, diabetes, severe infections, heart problems and of any allergies. Caution is advised when used in elderly patients because this group may be more sensitive to the drug's effect. GAMMAR IV should be use only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if GAMMAR IV is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

GAMMAR IV DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of vaccines; drugs that affect the kidneys (e.g., amphotericin, tobramycin) and of "water pills" (e.g., furosemide). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

GAMMAR IV OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

GAMMAR IV NOTES:
Laboratory tests (kidney functon) will be done to monitor your progress.

MISSED GAMMAR IV DOSE:
It is important that each dose be used as scheduled. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dose schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

GAMMAR IV STORAGE:
GAMMAR IV is stored under refrigeration as directed.