Varicella-Zoster Immune Globulin, VZIG injection
What is varicella-zoster immune globulin, VZIG injection?
VARICELLA-ZOSTER IMMUNE GLOBULIN, HUMAN (also known as VZIG) protects certain people from getting a severe varicella-zoster (chickenpox) infection. Chickenpox is not usually a serious infection for most children. However, certain infants, children, and adults who have not received the chickenpox vaccine or who have never had a chickenpox infection may be at risk of serious infections when they have come into contact with a person who has this disease. VZIG is given within 4 days of exposure to chickenpox or shingles. VZIG will temporarily protect against severe chickenpox infection for 3 weeks. Some people who receive this medication may still get chickenpox, but usually the infection is milder than it would have been without getting the medication. Generic varicella-zoster immune globulin injection is not available.
What should my health care professional know before I use varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG)?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
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bleeding disorders, like hemophilia
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bone, heart, kidney, liver, or lung transplant
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immunoglobulin A deficiency or other immune system disorder, like HIV or AIDS
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leukemia, lymphoma, or other cancer
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low counts of certain blood cells, called platelets
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an unusual or allergic reaction to varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG), human immune globulin products, thimerosal, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
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pregnant or trying to get pregnant
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breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Varicella-zoster immune globulin, VZIG is for injection into a muscle. It is given by a health-care professional in a hospital, clinic or prescriber's office.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply. VZIG is usually a one dose treatment.
What drug(s) may interact with varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG)?
If any vaccines are administered during or within 5 months after varicella-zoster immune globulin, they may not be as effective at preventing illness. Ask your health care professional about the changes that may need to occur in your immunization schedule.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG)?
Because this product is developed from pooled blood samples of many different human donors, it is theoretically possible that viruses or bacteria could be transmitted in the product. Since 1985, however, all products are tested for HIV and hepatitis, and there have been no case reports of illnesses being caused from the use of this product.
Discuss vaccination schedules with your health care professional to ensure your infant or child, if receiving VZIG, receives other childhood vaccines at the appropriate times. Discuss the need for varicella virus vaccination (Varivax®) to provide long-term protection against chickenpox to family members who have not had chickenpox infection or the vaccine yet.
What side effects may I notice from receiving varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG)?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
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difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or wheezing
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chest pain or tightness
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skin itching, rash, or hives
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
Where can I keep my medicine?
You will be given this medication in a clinic or hospital setting. You will not need to take this medication home.