Immunoglobulins

CSL Behring provides more than a dozen immunoglobulins (Igs) to treat immune deficiencies. Igs, which are antibodies or proteins, include powder(lyophilized) and liquid forms for direct infusion into the bloodstream (intravenous immunoglobulins [IVIgs]). We also offer Vivaglobin^®, the first subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) in the U.S.

Our Ig therapies are used to prevent and treat infections and diseases such as primary immunodeficiency disease (PI) and immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).

PI is a genetic disease that refers to a group of disorders in which antibodies used by the immune system are missing or do not function properly. PI is marked by frequent infections that are difficult to treat and often become life threatening.

ITP is the condition of having a low platelet count. Most cases appear related to antibodies against platelets, and very low counts can lead to unusual susceptibility to bleeding as well as red or purple skin discolorations.

The World Health Organization has identified more than 100 immunodeficiencies, ranging from extremely rare (severe combined immunodeficiency affects one individual in 1 million) to the more common selective IgA deficiency, which occurs in as many as one in 500 individuals.

IVIg—intravenous immunoglobulin—is indicated for the treatment of patients with numerous primary immunodeficiencies. Typically, patients visit their healthcare provider once or twice a month for their treatments.

CSL Behring also offers patients with PI a revolutionary alternative to traditional IVIg: Vivaglobin, which is a subcutaneous Ig. SCIg can often save time and effort to administer compared to IVIg, and can often be self administered in the patient’s home. Vivaglobin allows patients and healthcare providers the flexibility to choose the best therapy for the individual.

Some of our therapies have high levels of specific antibodies and are called hyperimmune immunoglobulins. They include treatments for tetanus, varicella, rabies, hepatitis A and B, as well as an anti-D that fights ITP, and that prevents hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), caused by blood group mismatch between mother and baby.

Hyperimmune Igs are also administered following solid organ transplant surgery to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV), a potentially life-threatening infection.

Product availability varies from country to country, depending on registration status. Please contact your
CSL Behring representative.