Rhophylac

Generic name: Rh₀ (D) Immune Globulin Intravenous (Human)

What is Rhophylac?

Rhophylac is given to pregnant women who have an Rh-negative blood type. Without treatment, an unborn child who has an Rh-positive blood type may develop serious health problems from exposure to antibodies in the mother's Rh-negative blood during pregnancy or delivery.

What is the most important information I should know about Rhophylac?

Rhophylac should not be given to the newborn infant. Rhophylac is made from human plasma and therefore may contain viruses. The plasma is screened and cleaned of viruses such as HIV, hepatitis B and C viruses, but may still contain infectious agents, such as those that cause Creutzfeldt-Jacob ("mad cow") disease.

Who should not take Rhophylac?

Do not take Rhophylac if you have a known allergic reaction to human immune globulin products or if you lack a protein called IgA in your blood (a test can determine this).

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Rhophylac?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Rhophylac. Also tell your doctor about any vaccines you have received recently.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

The recommended adult dosage of Rhophylac varies depending on the indication.

How should I take Rhophylac?

Rhophylac is administered intravenously (into the vein) in a hospital setting.

What should I avoid while taking Rhophylac?

Avoid receiving any other types of vaccinations immediately after treatment with Rhophylac.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Rhophylac?

If Rhophylac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Rhophylac with live vaccines, as their efficacy may be reduced.

What are the possible side effects of Rhophylac?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: injection-site pain, dizziness, fever, headache, chills, allergic reactions.

Signs of severe allergic reactions may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the throat. If any of these events occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Can I receive Rhophylac if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Rhophylac can be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Rhophylac?

Since Rhophylac is administered in the hospital, missing a dose is not an issue.

How should I store Rhophylac?

Rhophylac is only administered in a hospital or office setting.