Generic
Rabies Immunoglobulin USP
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Rabies Immunoglobulin USP is used for seroprophylaxis of rabies in subjects suspected of exposure to rabies virus, particularly in severe exposures such as multiple transdermal bites or scratches, contamination of mucous membrane with saliva, severe bites on face, head, neck, and hands, and bites to young children.
Description
Rabies Immunoglobulin provides passive immunization against rabies. It is derived from horse blood. eRIG neutralizes the virus at the wound site within a few hours. Rabies Immunoglobulin itself does not constitute an anti-rabies treatment and should always be used in conjunction with rabies vaccine.
Indications
- Seroprophylaxis of rabies in suspected exposure (especially severe exposure)
Therapeutic class
Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin
Pharmacological class
Passive Immunization (Anti-Rabies Immunoglobulin)
Pharmacology
Rabies Immunoglobulin provides immediate passive immunity against the rabies virus. It neutralizes the virus at the wound site and provides protection until vaccine-induced active immune response develops. Both active (vaccine) and passive (immunoglobulin) immunization prevent the rabies virus from infiltrating the CNS, but become ineffective once the virus has crossed into the CNS.
Mechanism of action
Provides immediate passive immunity against rabies virus.
Dosage
Adult and Pediatric Dose (IM/Local):
- Recommended dose: 40 IU/kg body weight
- Infiltrate as much as possible around and into wound(s); remainder IM (gluteal region) in a single injection
- Administered only once in a lifetime
- Should be given within 7 days of the first rabies vaccine dose
- Administered simultaneously with the first dose of rabies vaccine (at different sites)
Administration
- Administered by healthcare professional as IM or local infiltration only
- Never administer intravenously (risk of shock)
- Ensure needle has not penetrated a blood vessel
- Shake well before use (do not shake vigorously)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, consult your doctor.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Immediate: Hypotension, dyspnea, urticaria
- Delayed: Inflammatory reaction, fever, pruritus, rash, adenopathy, arthralgia
Precautions & warnings
- History of allergic symptoms to horse proteins; however, lethal risk of rabies overcomes any contraindication
- Do not administer in repeated doses (may reduce vaccine protective efficacy)
- Pregnancy is not a contraindication to rabies immunoglobulin administration (due to lethal risk of rabies)
Contraindications
- History of allergic symptoms to horse proteins; however, lethal risk of rabies overcomes any contraindication
Drug interactions
- Immunosuppressants: May reduce efficacy of rabies vaccine
Food interactions
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Rabies Immunoglobulin USP.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Safety not established during pregnancy; however, due to lethal risk of rabies, pregnancy is not a contraindication.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Safety not established during lactation; however, due to lethal risk of rabies, lactation is not a contraindication.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dose same as adult (40 IU/kg); may be diluted with 0.9% sodium chloride for multiple wounds.
Geriatric use
No dose adjustment required for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Safe in kidney disease; dose adjustment may not be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Safe in liver disease; dose adjustment may not be needed; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose: If recommended dosage is not strictly observed, risk of immunosuppressive interference (suppression of vaccine protective efficacy).
Storage conditions
Store at 2-8°C; transport also at 2-8°C; protect from light; do not freeze; keep out of reach and sight of children.
Chemical structure
Rabies Immunoglobulin USP