Bivigam 10% Inj, 50ml

Manufacturer ADMA BIOLOGICS Active Ingredient Immune Globulin (IV)(i MYUN GLOB yoo lin) Pronunciation IM-yoon GLOB-yoo-lin
WARNING: There is a chance of blood clots with this drug. The chance is raised in older people and in people with thick blood, heart problems, or a history of blood clots. The chance may also be higher if you must be in a bed or chair for some time, if you take estrogen, or if you use certain catheters. However, blood clots can happen even if you do not have any of these health problems. Call your doctor right away if you have numbness or weakness on 1 side of your body; pain, redness, tenderness, warmth, or swelling in the arms or legs; change in color of an arm or leg; chest pain or pressure; shortness of breath; fast heartbeat; or coughing up blood. Talk with your doctor.Kidney problems have happened with human immune globulin. Sometimes, these problems have been deadly. Kidney problems are more common in people using products that have sucrose. Most immune globulin products do not have sucrose. The chance of these problems may be raised if you have kidney problems, high blood sugar (diabetes), fluid loss (dehydration) or low blood volume, a blood infection, or proteins in the blood that are not normal. The chance may be raised if you are 65 or older, or if you take other drugs that may harm the kidneys. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about this information or about if your product has sucrose.You will need to be sure that you are not dehydrated before getting this drug. Check with your doctor to see if you need to drink extra fluids before getting this drug. @ COMMON USES: It is used to help prevent infections or make infections less severe in people with a weak immune system.It is used to treat immune thrombocytopenia (ITP).It is used treat chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).It is used to treat Kawasaki disease.It is used to treat a certain muscle problem caused by inflammation (dermatomyositis).It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
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Drug Class
Immunomodulator, Immunoglobulin
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Pharmacologic Class
Human Immune Globulin
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Pregnancy Category
Category C
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FDA Approved
Dec 2012
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Bivigam is a medicine made from human blood plasma that contains antibodies (proteins that fight infections). It is given directly into a vein (intravenously) to help people whose bodies don't make enough of their own antibodies to fight off infections (like in primary immunodeficiency) or to help treat certain autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own cells (like in ITP). It works by boosting your immune system's ability to protect you.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions carefully. This medication is administered as an infusion into a vein over a specified period.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.

Missing a Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor immediately to receive guidance on what to do next.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Stay well-hydrated before, during, and after your infusion, as directed by your healthcare provider. This helps reduce the risk of kidney problems.
  • Report any new or worsening symptoms immediately to your healthcare provider, especially headache, fever, chills, rash, shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling/pain in your arms or legs.
  • Avoid live virus vaccines (like MMR, chickenpox) for several months after receiving Bivigam, as it can make the vaccine less effective. Discuss your vaccination schedule with your doctor.
  • Inform all healthcare providers that you are receiving Bivigam, especially before any surgeries or procedures.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Highly variable based on indication. For Primary Immunodeficiency (PID): 300-800 mg/kg (average 400 mg/kg) every 3-4 weeks. For Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): 1 g/kg/day for 1-2 days.
Dose Range: 300 - 1000 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

Primary Immunodeficiency (PID): 300-800 mg/kg (average 400 mg/kg) administered every 3-4 weeks. Initial infusion rate: 0.5 mg/kg/min for 30 minutes, if tolerated, may increase gradually to 4 mg/kg/min.
Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): 1 g/kg/day for 1-2 consecutive days. Initial infusion rate: 0.5 mg/kg/min for 30 minutes, if tolerated, may increase gradually to 4 mg/kg/min.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established for specific indications, use with extreme caution and reduced rates if used off-label.
Infant: Dosing for PID and ITP is generally weight-based, similar to adult mg/kg dosing. Infusion rates should be carefully monitored and potentially slower.
Child: Dosing for PID and ITP is generally weight-based, similar to adult mg/kg dosing. Infusion rates should be carefully monitored and potentially slower.
Adolescent: Dosing for PID and ITP is generally weight-based, similar to adult mg/kg dosing. Infusion rates should be carefully monitored and potentially slower.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: Use with caution. Monitor renal function (BUN, creatinine) and urine output. Ensure adequate hydration. Consider slower infusion rates.
Moderate: Use with caution. Monitor renal function (BUN, creatinine) and urine output. Ensure adequate hydration. Consider slower infusion rates and potentially lower doses.
Severe: Use with extreme caution. Monitor renal function (BUN, creatinine) and urine output closely. Ensure adequate hydration. Consider slower infusion rates and potentially lower doses. Bivigam is sucrose-free, which may reduce renal risk compared to sucrose-stabilized products, but risk still exists.
Dialysis: Not specifically studied. Use with extreme caution. Monitor renal function and fluid balance closely. Consider administering post-dialysis.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Severe: No specific dose adjustment recommended.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Immune Globulin Intravenous (IGIV) provides passive immunity by increasing the serum IgG levels. Its mechanism of action in immune-mediated disorders (e.g., ITP) is complex and not fully elucidated, but is thought to involve: Fc receptor blockade on reticuloendothelial cells, modulation of cytokine production, anti-idiotypic antibody effects, complement modulation, and effects on B and T cell function.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: 100%
Tmax: Immediately after infusion
FoodEffect: Not applicable (IV administration)

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 0.07 L/kg (primarily in plasma, with distribution into extravascular space)
ProteinBinding: Not applicable (is a protein)
CnssPenetration: Limited (does not readily cross intact blood-brain barrier)

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 26.7 days (Bivigam PI), but can vary widely (21-35 days) depending on the individual and underlying disease state.
Clearance: Varies by individual and disease state; primarily through catabolism.
ExcretionRoute: Not excreted renally in significant amounts as intact protein.
Unchanged: Not applicable (is catabolized)
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Rapid (within hours to days for some effects like platelet count increase in ITP); chronic effects (e.g., in PID) are sustained with regular dosing.
PeakEffect: Immediately post-infusion for serum IgG levels; clinical peak effect varies by indication.
DurationOfAction: Varies by indication and individual, typically 3-4 weeks for PID.

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

THROMBOSIS: Thrombosis may occur with immune globulin products, including BIVIGAM. Risk factors may include advanced age, prolonged immobilization, hypercoagulable conditions, history of venous or arterial thrombosis, use of estrogens, indwelling central vascular catheters, hyperviscosity, and cardiovascular risk factors. For patients at risk of thrombosis, administer BIVIGAM at the minimum dose and infusion rate practicable. Ensure adequate hydration in patients prior to administration. Monitor for signs and symptoms of thrombosis and assess blood viscosity in patients at risk for hyperviscosity.
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Side Effects

Important Side Effects to Report to Your Doctor Immediately

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of kidney problems, including:
+ Inability to pass urine
+ Changes in urine output
+ Blood in the urine
+ Sudden weight gain
Signs of high or low blood pressure, such as:
+ Severe headache or dizziness
+ Fainting or near-fainting
+ Changes in vision
Fever, chills, or sore throat
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Feeling extremely tired or weak
Blue or gray discoloration of the skin, lips, nail beds, fingers, or toes
Seizures
Bloating
Confusion
Swelling
Abnormal heartbeat
Mood changes
Muscle or joint pain
Changes in speech or vision
Shakiness
Excessive sweating
Severe stomach pain
Dark urine or yellowing of the skin or eyes

Serious Lung Problems

This medication can cause severe lung problems, which can be life-threatening. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

Trouble breathing
Shortness of breath
New or worsening cough

Aseptic Meningitis

This medication may increase the risk of aseptic meningitis, a severe brain problem. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

Headache
Fever
Chills
Nausea or vomiting
Stiff neck
Rash
Sensitivity to light
Feeling sleepy or confused

Immune Globulin Therapy

If you are receiving immune globulin therapy for the first time, have not had it in the past 8 weeks, or are switching brands, you may be at risk for certain side effects, including:

Fever
Chills
Nausea
Vomiting

Dehydration and Low Sodium Levels

If you are receiving this medication intravenously, you may be at risk for dehydration and low sodium levels. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

Signs of dehydration, such as:
+ Dry skin, mouth, or eyes
+ Thirst
+ Rapid heartbeat
+ Dizziness
+ Rapid breathing
+ Confusion
Signs of low sodium levels, such as:
+ Headache
+ Difficulty focusing
+ Memory problems
+ Confusion
+ Weakness
+ Seizures
+ Changes in balance

Other Possible Side Effects

While many people do not experience side effects or only experience mild side effects, some people may experience:

Irritation at the injection site
Dizziness, tiredness, or weakness
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Back pain
Muscle spasms
Signs of a common cold
Flushing
Cramps

If you experience any of these side effects or any other side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, fever, nausea, vomiting (signs of aseptic meningitis)
  • Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, pain/swelling/redness in an arm or leg (signs of a blood clot)
  • Decreased urination, swelling in legs or feet, sudden weight gain (signs of kidney problems)
  • Severe allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat)
  • Dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of red blood cell breakdown)
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions before starting this medication:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this drug, its components, or other substances, such as foods or medications. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you have IgA deficiency, a condition where your body lacks a specific antibody.
If you have hyperprolinemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of proline in your blood.
If you have excess fluid in your body or have been advised to monitor your fluid intake.
If you are unable to break down fructose, a type of sugar. Some formulations of this medication contain sorbitol, which may be problematic for individuals with this condition.

Special Considerations for Children:

If your child is an infant or baby, and it is unclear whether they can break down sucrose or fructose, do not administer this medication without consulting your doctor.

Additional Precautions:

This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. This will help ensure your safety while taking this medication. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you have a latex allergy, be sure to discuss this with your doctor.

Before receiving any vaccinations, consult with your doctor, as certain vaccines may not be effective or may increase the risk of infection when used with this medication.

Regular blood tests and other laboratory evaluations should be performed as directed by your doctor. Additionally, inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication, as it may affect the results of certain lab tests.

If you have a weakened immune system and have been exposed to measles, discuss this with your doctor. It is also important to note that this medication is derived from human plasma and may potentially contain viruses that can cause disease. Although the medication is thoroughly screened, tested, and treated to minimize the risk of infection, you should still discuss this with your doctor.

If you are following a low-sodium or sodium-free diet, consult with your doctor, as some formulations of this medication may contain sodium. Furthermore, if you have diabetes (high blood sugar), discuss with your doctor which glucose tests are suitable for you to use.

If you are 65 years or older, exercise caution when using this medication, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.

If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Fluid overload (e.g., shortness of breath, swelling)
  • Increased blood viscosity
  • Acute renal dysfunction
  • Thrombotic events

What to Do:

In case of suspected overdose, discontinue the infusion immediately. Management is supportive and symptomatic. Monitor vital signs, renal function, and fluid balance closely. Call 911 or your local emergency number. For specific guidance, contact a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222 in the US).

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Live virus vaccines (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella, varicella): May interfere with the immune response to live attenuated virus vaccines. Defer vaccination for at least 3 months, and up to 1 year depending on the IVIG dose and vaccine type.
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Moderate Interactions

  • Loop diuretics: Increased risk of renal dysfunction when co-administered with IVIG, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or risk factors.
  • Nephrotoxic drugs: Increased risk of renal dysfunction when co-administered with IVIG, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or risk factors.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Renal function (BUN, serum creatinine)

Rationale: To assess baseline kidney function and identify patients at increased risk for acute renal dysfunction.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Hydration status

Rationale: To ensure adequate hydration, which is crucial to minimize renal risk.

Timing: Prior to and during infusion.

Serum Ig levels (IgG trough levels)

Rationale: For patients with Primary Immunodeficiency, to ensure adequate therapeutic levels are maintained.

Timing: Prior to subsequent infusions (trough levels).

Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature)

Rationale: To establish baseline and monitor for immediate infusion-related reactions.

Timing: Prior to infusion.

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Routine Monitoring

Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature)

Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes during infusion, then periodically post-infusion.

Target: Within patient's normal range.

Action Threshold: Significant changes (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, fever) warrant slowing/stopping infusion and intervention.

Signs and symptoms of adverse reactions (e.g., headache, chills, nausea, rash, dyspnea, chest pain)

Frequency: Continuously during and for several hours after infusion.

Target: Absence of symptoms.

Action Threshold: Presence of symptoms warrants slowing/stopping infusion and intervention.

Urine output

Frequency: Monitor during and after infusion, especially in at-risk patients.

Target: Adequate urine output.

Action Threshold: Decreased urine output or signs of renal impairment.

Renal function (BUN, serum creatinine)

Frequency: As clinically indicated, especially in patients with risk factors for renal dysfunction (e.g., every 1-2 days for several days post-infusion).

Target: Within patient's normal range or stable.

Action Threshold: Significant increase in BUN/creatinine.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Rash
  • Hives
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle cramps
  • Back pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Swelling or pain in a limb (signs of thrombosis)
  • Decreased urine output
  • Sudden weight gain
  • Swelling (signs of fluid retention/renal dysfunction)
  • Signs of aseptic meningitis (severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, fever, nausea, vomiting)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Category C. Bivigam should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. Human IgG is known to cross the placental barrier, particularly during the third trimester. While generally considered safe when indicated, potential risks and benefits should be carefully weighed.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Limited data, but generally considered low risk for structural malformations.
Second Trimester: Limited data, but generally considered low risk.
Third Trimester: Significant placental transfer of IgG occurs, potentially affecting neonatal immune response to live vaccines. No known direct teratogenic effects.
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Lactation

L2 - Likely compatible. Human IgG is naturally secreted into breast milk and can provide passive immunity to the infant. No adverse effects on breastfed infants have been reported with IVIG use. Consider the clinical need of the mother and potential benefits to the infant.

Infant Risk: Low risk. IgG is a natural component of breast milk and is generally considered safe for the infant.
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Pediatric Use

Dosing is weight-based and varies by indication. Infusion rates should be carefully monitored, especially in infants and young children, to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Ensure adequate hydration. Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients are established for approved indications (e.g., PID, ITP).

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Geriatric Use

Use with caution. Elderly patients are at increased risk for thrombotic events and acute renal dysfunction due to higher prevalence of underlying risk factors (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes, renal impairment, volume depletion). Administer at the minimum dose and infusion rate practicable. Ensure adequate hydration and monitor renal function closely.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Always ensure adequate hydration before, during, and after infusion to minimize the risk of renal dysfunction and thrombosis.
  • Start infusions at the lowest recommended rate and gradually increase if tolerated, especially for first-time infusions or in patients with risk factors.
  • Pre-medication (e.g., acetaminophen, antihistamines) may be considered for patients with a history of infusion-related reactions, but is not routinely required.
  • Monitor vital signs closely throughout the infusion and for a period afterward.
  • Patients should be advised to report any adverse symptoms immediately.
  • Bivigam is sucrose-free, which may reduce the risk of acute renal failure compared to sucrose-stabilized IVIG products, but renal monitoring is still crucial, especially in at-risk patients.
  • Do not mix Bivigam with other medicinal products. Administer separately.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other Immune Globulin Intravenous (IVIG) products (e.g., Gammagard S/D, Gamunex-C, Privigen, Octagam)
  • Immune Globulin Subcutaneous (SCIG) products (e.g., Hizentra, Gammaked, Cuvitru, Xembify) for PID
  • For ITP: Corticosteroids, anti-D immunoglobulin, thrombopoietin receptor agonists (e.g., eltrombopag, romiplostim), rituximab, splenectomy.
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Highly variable, typically several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per infusion depending on dose and weight. per 50ml vial (5g)
Insurance Coverage: Specialty Tier / Medical Benefit. Requires prior authorization and often proof of diagnosis and medical necessity.
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health problems do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

To ensure safe and effective use of your medication, follow these guidelines:
- Do not share your prescription drugs with others, and never take medication that has been prescribed for someone else.
- Store all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.
- Properly dispose of any unused or expired medications. Unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or pharmacist, avoid flushing medications down the toilet or pouring them down the drain.
- For guidance on the safe disposal of medications, consult with your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area.
- Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet; check with your pharmacist for more information.
- If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, consult with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the name of the medication, the amount taken, and the time it was ingested.