What is immunoglobulin (IG) therapy?
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Understanding immunoglobulin (IG) therapy
Hawaii Specialty Pharmacy (HSP) is dedicated to delivering patients with chronic immunodeficiency comprehensive, compassionate, and individualized immunoglobulin therapy.
Immunoglobulin therapy at a glance
Immunoglobulin (IG) therapy involves using antibodies extracted from donated blood plasma to support or regulate the immune system. These antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins naturally produced by the body to fight infections and maintain immune health. Depending on the patient’s needs and medical condition, the therapy is administered via intravenous (IVIG) or subcutaneous (SCIG) infusion.
IVIG therapy
IVIG involves delivering immunoglobulin into the bloodstream through a vein. It’s crucial for patients with immune deficiencies and autoimmune disorders to provide antibodies their bodies may lack. IVIG therapy is usually given in a healthcare setting under the supervision of trained professionals for efficacy and safety.
SCIG therapy
SCIG offers smaller, regular doses via an infusion pump under the skin, rather than less frequent, longer intravenous sessions. This method gives patients more flexibility and control over their treatment schedules and maintains consistent antibody levels. SCIG therapy minimizes daily life disruptions, supporting patients while allowing them to manage their health journey.
Who needs it?
IG therapy is often prescribed for individuals whose immune systems are compromised or malfunctioning. You might need IG therapy if you:
Have a primary immunodeficiency (PI), where your body doesn’t produce enough antibodies.
Suffer from autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks healthy tissues.
Are you recovering from severe infections or certain conditions requiring immune support.
Your doctor may recommend this therapy if your immune system needs help to either function more effectively or manage an overactive response.
What’s it for?
IG therapy is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Primary immunodeficiencies – Conditions like common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) or X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA).
Autoimmune disorders – Conditions like Guillain-Barré Syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and certain forms of neuropathy.
Chronic inflammatory diseases – Diseases like Kawasaki disease or multifocal motor neuropathy.
Infections – Recurrent or severe infections due to immune deficiencies.
Your healthcare provider will assess your specific needs and health condition to determine if IG therapy is the right treatment for you.
What does it do?
IG therapy works by supplementing or modulating the immune system. Depending on your condition, IG therapy can:
Provide essential antibodies that your body lacks, improving your ability to fight infections.
Regulate immune system activity to prevent it from attacking your tissues in autoimmune conditions.
Reduce inflammation and improve symptoms associated with certain immune-related disorders.
Its role is to restore balance to your immune system, whether by boosting its defenses or calming excessive responses.
About HSP's IG Center of Excellence
Our dedicated IG Center of Excellence ensures a comprehensive, compassionate, and seamless approach to IV therapy, including:
An easy referral process.
Complete intake and care coordination.
Ongoing support.
Drug support and dose optimization.
Therapy adherence.
We offer multiple therapy administration options and nursing coordination to get patients started as quickly as possible.
Delivering care where it's needed most
Our expert team offers various therapy administration options and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you choose to receive IG therapy in the comfort of your home, at your provider’s office, or one of our three infusion centers on Oahu and Maui, you can expect seamless and compassionate care.
