ABSTRACT
Since their introduction in the 1950s, gammaglobulin injections have changed remarkably, both in their quality and in disease indications. The initial uses were as replacement for patients with compromised immunity by intramuscular injection; the general recommendations were for approximately 100mg/kg body weight to be given every 4 weeks. The injections were generally safe, albeit painful, and provided protection against recurrent infections. During the past two or more decades, the clinical indications for gammaglobulin therapy have expanded dramatically, and preparations of gammaglobulin suitable for intravenous administration have been developed. These preparations of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) initially were chemically modified and enzyme-treated. Now they are manufactured in ways to avoid these harsh measures, preserving the integrity of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and increasing the circulating halflife of administered material.
