IVIG Infusion Titration Protocol for 92kg Patient Receiving 36.4g (364mL)
For this 92kg patient receiving 36.4 grams of IVIG, administer the infusion over 4-6 hours for the first dose, starting at a slow rate and gradually increasing as tolerated, with subsequent doses potentially given over 2-4 hours if well-tolerated. 1
Pre-Infusion Preparation
Premedication:
- Administer diphenhydramine 1 mg/kg (approximately 92mg for this patient) 1
- Administer acetaminophen 10-15 mg/kg (approximately 920-1380mg for this patient) 1
- Consider corticosteroids if the patient has a history of infusion reactions 2
Pre-Assessment:
- Check baseline vital signs before starting 1
- Ensure adequate hydration 1
- Verify IgA levels have been checked to prevent severe anaphylaxis in IgA-deficient patients 2, 1
- Review renal function, as monitoring is required during administration 2
Infusion Rate Titration
Initial Infusion (First Dose):
- Start slowly: Begin at 0.5-1 mL/kg/hour (46-92 mL/hour for this 92kg patient) for the first 30 minutes 3
- Gradual increase: If tolerated without adverse reactions, increase by 0.5 mL/kg/hour every 15-30 minutes 3
- Target rate: Work up to a maximum of 3-4 mL/kg/hour (276-368 mL/hour) as tolerated 3
- Total duration: Complete the 364mL infusion over 4-6 hours 1
Subsequent Infusions:
- If the first infusion was well-tolerated, subsequent doses may be administered over 2-4 hours 1
- Use the same gradual titration approach but may reach target rate more quickly 1
Monitoring Protocol
Vital Sign Monitoring:
- Check vitals every 15-30 minutes during the first hour 1
- Check hourly thereafter if stable 1
- Monitor continuously for signs of adverse reactions 3
Parameters to Monitor:
- Blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature 1
- Renal function including urine output and serum creatinine 2
- Signs of fluid overload, particularly in patients with cardiac dysfunction 2
Management of Adverse Reactions
If Mild Reactions Occur (flushing, headache, malaise):
- Slow or temporarily stop the infusion 3
- Administer additional antihistamines or acetaminophen 3
- Resume at a slower rate once symptoms resolve 3
If Severe Reactions Occur (anaphylaxis, severe hypotension):
Important Clinical Caveats
- Do not administer plasmapheresis immediately after IVIG, as it will remove the immunoglobulin 1
- Patients with cardiac dysfunction may benefit from divided dosing (splitting the dose over 2 days at 1 g/kg daily) to minimize fluid overload 2
- The majority of adverse effects are transient and mild, but rare serious complications include renal impairment, thrombosis, and hemolytic anemia 3
- Infusing at a slow rate and premedicating can minimize adverse effects 3