Dose:  0.02 ml/kg or 0.5 ml IM for prophylaxis against hepatitis A virus infections
            0.25 ml/kg IM for prophylaxis against measles infections.
            Do not give IV.

Comments: Human serum immune globulin (IG) is derived from pooled plasma.  It consists of mainly IgG (95%) and trace amounts of IgA and IgM.  There are presently 2 indications for the use of IG in infants:
1. prophylaxis against hepatitis A virus infections (0.02 ml/kg or 0.5 ml)
2. prophylaxis against measles infections (0.25 ml/kg)
Immunizations with MMR and varicella vaccines should be deferred for 3 months after a dose of IG for hepatitis A prophylaxis and 6 months after a dose of IG for measles prophylaxis.   IG should not alter the primary immunization schedule for diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and pertussis vaccine (either DTaP or DTwP), H. influenza B conjugate vaccine, or poliovirus vaccines (either IPV or OPV). Further comments on immune globulin.

Toxicity: Do not give IV. IV injections can cause precipitous falls in blood pressure. Hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylaxis reactions are very rare. Local tenderness and pain may persist for several hours. Systemic reactions including urticaria angioedema, fever, and emesis are rare (Facts and Comparisons, Inc. Drug Facts and Comparisons. Olin, B.R. ed. St. Louis, MO:Facts and Comparisons, Inc; 1997, page 445a).

Preparation:  Human immune globulin (IG) is available in a 2 ml vial. Store at 2-8^o C (35.6-46.4^o F). Do not freeze.   Do not give IV.