Octagam 5% 2.5gm/50ml Inj, 1 Vial

Manufacturer PFIZER U.S. Active Ingredient Immune Globulin (IV)(i MYUN GLOB yoo lin) Pronunciation OC-tah-gam (5%): ih-MYUN 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; Blood Product
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Pharmacologic Class
Immune Globulin, Intravenous
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Pregnancy Category
Category C
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FDA Approved
Sep 2004
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Octagam 5% is a medicine made from human blood plasma that contains antibodies (proteins that fight infections). It's given directly into your vein (intravenously) to help your immune system work better, either by providing missing antibodies or by calming down an overactive immune system in certain conditions.
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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 period of time.

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 best storage method.

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 to help prevent side effects, especially kidney problems.
  • Report any unusual symptoms immediately to your healthcare provider during or after the infusion.
  • Avoid live virus vaccines (like MMR or chickenpox) for several months after receiving Octagam 5%, as it can make the vaccine less effective. Discuss your vaccination schedule with your doctor.
  • Follow all instructions regarding infusion rate and duration.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Highly variable based on indication. Examples: Primary Immunodeficiency (PI): 300-800 mg/kg every 3-4 weeks. Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP): 400 mg/kg/day for 2-5 days OR 1000 mg/kg/day for 1-2 days. Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP): Loading dose 2 g/kg over 2-5 days, then maintenance 1 g/kg every 3 weeks or 0.5 g/kg every week.

Condition-Specific Dosing:

Primary Immunodeficiency (PI): 300-800 mg/kg every 3-4 weeks
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP): 400 mg/kg/day for 2-5 days OR 1000 mg/kg/day for 1-2 days
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP): Loading dose 2 g/kg over 2-5 days, then maintenance 1 g/kg every 3 weeks or 0.5 g/kg every week
Kawasaki Disease: 2 g/kg as a single dose
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established for all indications; specific dosing for conditions like neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia or severe infections may apply, consult specialist guidelines.
Infant: Dosing is weight-based and indication-specific, similar to adult mg/kg doses (e.g., PI, ITP, Kawasaki Disease).
Child: Dosing is weight-based and indication-specific (e.g., PI, ITP, Kawasaki Disease).
Adolescent: Dosing is weight-based and indication-specific, often similar to adult mg/kg doses.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: Use with caution. Ensure adequate hydration. Monitor renal function.
Moderate: Use with caution. Consider lower infusion rates and monitor renal function closely. Ensure adequate hydration.
Severe: Contraindicated in patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency unless the benefit outweighs the risk. If used, administer at the minimum concentration available and at the slowest infusion rate practicable. Monitor renal function closely.
Dialysis: IVIG is not significantly removed by dialysis. Dosing adjustments are generally not required based on dialysis status, but careful monitoring for fluid overload and renal function is crucial.

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 (Human) provides a broad spectrum of IgG antibodies against various infectious agents and toxins. Its mechanism of action in immunomodulatory conditions (e.g., ITP, CIDP) is complex and not fully elucidated, but is thought to involve: Fc receptor blockade on macrophages, modulation of cytokine production, inhibition of complement activation, suppression of autoantibody production, and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

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

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 3-4 L (similar to plasma volume), with some extravascular distribution.
ProteinBinding: Not applicable (it is a protein)
CnssPenetration: Limited, but can have therapeutic effects in neurological autoimmune conditions (e.g., CIDP).

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 21-30 days (highly variable among individuals and indications)
Clearance: Variable, depends on individual IgG catabolism rate.
ExcretionRoute: Not excreted renally in significant amounts; catabolized.
Unchanged: Not applicable (it is a protein that is catabolized)
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Hours to days, depending on indication (e.g., ITP response can be rapid, CIDP may take longer).
PeakEffect: Days to weeks, depending on indication.
DurationOfAction: Weeks to months, depending on half-life and indication (e.g., 3-4 weeks for PI, longer for some autoimmune conditions).
Confidence: Medium

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

THROMBOSIS: Thrombosis may occur with immune globulin products, including Octagam 5%. Risk factors may include advanced age, prolonged immobilization, hypercoagulable conditions, history of venous or arterial thrombosis, use of estrogens, indwelling central vascular catheters, and hyperviscosity. For patients at risk of thrombosis, administer Octagam 5% at the minimum concentration available and at the slowest infusion rate practicable. Ensure adequate hydration in patients before administration. Monitor for signs and symptoms of thrombosis and assess blood viscosity in patients at risk for hyperviscosity.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:

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
+ Passing out
+ Changes in eyesight
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 eyesight
Shakiness
Excessive sweating
Severe stomach pain
Dark urine or yellow skin and eyes

Severe Lung Problems

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

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

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Dehydration and Low Sodium Levels

This medication can cause dehydration and low sodium levels when given intravenously. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately:

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

Other Side Effects

Most people do not experience severe side effects, but some may occur. If you experience any of the following side effects, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:

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

Reporting Side Effects

If you have questions about side effects or want to report a side effect, contact your doctor or 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, nausea, vomiting (signs of aseptic meningitis)
  • Sudden pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in an arm or leg (signs of a blood clot)
  • Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood (signs of a blood clot in the lungs)
  • Sudden vision changes, slurred speech, or weakness on one side of the body (signs of a stroke)
  • Decreased urination, swelling in your legs or feet, unusual tiredness (signs of kidney problems)
  • Hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, dizziness, fainting (signs of a severe allergic reaction)
  • Fever, chills, body aches, fatigue (common infusion-related reactions, report if severe or persistent)
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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 to ensure safe treatment:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. 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 an excess of 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 may contain sorbitol, which can 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 Important Information:

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 that it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments. 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 taken 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, consult 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, 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.

Older adults (65 years and older) should exercise caution when taking this medication, as they may be more susceptible to side effects. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks to 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. Manage symptoms supportively. Monitor vital signs, fluid balance, and renal function. Consider diuresis if fluid overloaded. For severe reactions, emergency medical attention is required. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for further guidance.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Live virus vaccines (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella, varicella): IVIG may interfere with the immune response to live virus vaccines. Defer vaccination for at least 3 months after IVIG administration. For measles vaccine, defer for up to 11 months depending on IVIG dose.
  • Loop diuretics: Increased risk of acute renal failure, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or risk factors.
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Moderate Interactions

  • ACE inhibitors: Potential for increased risk of angioedema, though evidence is limited.
  • Nephrotoxic drugs: Concurrent use may increase the risk of acute renal dysfunction, especially in susceptible patients.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Renal function (BUN, creatinine)

Rationale: To assess baseline renal status and identify patients at risk for acute renal dysfunction.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Fluid status/Hydration

Rationale: To ensure adequate hydration before and during infusion, reducing risk of renal adverse events.

Timing: Prior to and during infusion.

Serum IgA levels

Rationale: To screen for IgA deficient patients who may develop anti-IgA antibodies and be at risk for severe anaphylactic reactions.

Timing: Prior to first infusion.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Rationale: To assess baseline hematologic status.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

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Routine Monitoring

Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature)

Frequency: Before, during (every 15-30 minutes for first hour, then periodically), and after infusion.

Target: Within patient's normal limits.

Action Threshold: Significant deviations (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, fever) require immediate intervention and slowing/stopping infusion.

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

Frequency: Continuously during and for several hours after infusion.

Target: Absence of symptoms.

Action Threshold: Any new or worsening symptom requires assessment and potential intervention.

Fluid balance (intake/output)

Frequency: During and for 24 hours post-infusion, especially in at-risk patients.

Target: Maintain euvolemia.

Action Threshold: Signs of fluid overload or dehydration.

Renal function (BUN, creatinine)

Frequency: Before each infusion, or more frequently in patients at risk for renal dysfunction.

Target: Within patient's normal limits or stable.

Action Threshold: Significant increase in BUN/creatinine, decrease in urine output.

Signs of thrombosis (e.g., pain, swelling, redness in limb, shortness of breath, chest pain)

Frequency: Continuously during and for several days to weeks post-infusion.

Target: Absence of symptoms.

Action Threshold: Any new or worsening symptom requires immediate medical evaluation.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Rash
  • Hives
  • Dyspnea
  • Chest tightness
  • Back pain
  • Muscle cramps
  • Signs of allergic reaction (swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing)
  • Signs of thrombosis (pain, swelling, warmth, redness in an arm or leg; sudden shortness of breath; chest pain; vision changes; slurred speech)
  • Signs of acute renal dysfunction (decreased urine output, swelling, fatigue)
  • Signs of aseptic meningitis (severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, nausea, vomiting)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Category C. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted. It is not known whether Octagam 5% can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Octagam 5% should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. IgG antibodies are known to cross the placenta, particularly in the third trimester.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Limited data, theoretical risk of interference with early immune development, but generally considered low risk.
Second Trimester: Limited data, generally considered low risk.
Third Trimester: IgG antibodies are actively transported across the placenta, potentially affecting fetal immune system or interfering with neonatal vaccine response. Benefits must outweigh potential risks.
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Lactation

L2 (Safer). Human IgG is excreted into breast milk and may contribute to the transfer of immunity to the infant. No adverse effects on the breastfed infant are expected. Consider the benefits of breastfeeding along with the mother's clinical need for Octagam 5% and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from the drug or from the underlying maternal condition.

Infant Risk: Low risk. No known adverse effects on breastfed infants.
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Pediatric Use

Dosing is weight-based and indication-specific. Children, especially those with underlying conditions, may be at increased risk for adverse events such as acute renal dysfunction or thrombosis. Close monitoring of fluid status, renal function, and infusion rate is crucial.

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Geriatric Use

Elderly patients (β‰₯65 years) are at increased risk for acute renal dysfunction and thrombotic events. Use with caution, ensure adequate hydration, and administer at the minimum concentration and slowest infusion rate practicable. Monitor renal function and signs of thrombosis closely.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Always ensure adequate hydration of the patient before, during, and after IVIG infusion to minimize the risk of renal adverse events.
  • Start infusions at a slow rate and gradually increase if tolerated, especially for the first infusion or in patients at high risk for adverse reactions.
  • Pre-medication (e.g., acetaminophen, antihistamines) may be considered for patients with a history of infusion-related reactions, but is not routinely required for all patients.
  • Patients with pre-existing renal impairment, diabetes mellitus, advanced age, volume depletion, sepsis, paraproteinemia, or concomitant nephrotoxic drugs are at higher risk for acute renal dysfunction.
  • Patients with IgA deficiency who have antibodies to IgA are at increased risk of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Octagam 5% contains trace amounts of IgA.
  • Monitor for signs of aseptic meningitis syndrome (AMS) which can occur hours to 2 days post-infusion, characterized by severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, nausea, and vomiting. It is usually self-limiting.
  • Thrombotic events can occur, even in the absence of known risk factors. Maintain a high index of suspicion for symptoms of thrombosis.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Subcutaneous Immune Globulin (SCIG) for primary immunodeficiency (e.g., Hizentra, Cutaquig, Xembify)
  • Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone, dexamethasone) for ITP, CIDP, or other autoimmune conditions
  • Other immunosuppressants (e.g., rituximab, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil) depending on the specific autoimmune indication
  • Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) for certain neurological or autoimmune conditions (e.g., CIDP, Guillain-BarrΓ© Syndrome)
  • Splenectomy for refractory ITP
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Highly variable, typically thousands to tens of thousands of dollars per dose depending on weight-based dosing and frequency. per dose
Insurance Coverage: Generally covered by most commercial and government insurance plans (Medicare, Medicaid) for FDA-approved indications. Prior authorization is almost always required.
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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 use, do not share your medication with others, and never take someone else's medication. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.

Proper disposal of unused or expired medications is crucial. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. If you are unsure about the best method for disposing of your medication, consult with your pharmacist, who can provide guidance on safe disposal practices. Additionally, you may want to inquire about potential drug take-back programs in your area.

Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet. If you have questions or concerns about your medication, it is recommended that you consult with your pharmacist, who can provide further information and clarification.

In the event of a suspected overdose, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center or visit the emergency room right away. Be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the quantity, and the time it occurred, to ensure prompt and effective treatment.