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Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG)

Prescription
Human Polyclonal Immunoglobulin
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
3 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Pooled human IgG from thousands of donors providing broad-spectrum passive immunity and immunomodulation. Mechanisms include Fc receptor blockade (preventing platelet/RBC destruction in ITP/IMHA), anti-idiotype antibody neutralization, complement inhibition, and cytokine modulation.

At a glance

Class
Human Polyclonal Immunoglobulin
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; some products can be stored at room temperature per label; do not freeze; do not shake

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for IMHA, ITP, immune-mediated skin disease (pemphigus), myasthenia gravis
Dose
Route
kg, h, increase to max 2 mL, kg, h)
Frequency
Once; may repeat once
🐈

Cat

Same indications as dogs
Dose
Route
IV
Frequency
Once; may repeat once

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Refrigerate 2–8°C; some products can be stored at room temperature per label; do not freeze; do not shake

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Vital signs q15 min during infusionPlatelet count (ITP — expect rise in 1–3 days)PCV (IMHA)Renal functionSigns of anaphylaxis

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Gammagard
Privigen
Octagam

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG)?
Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) is a human polyclonal immunoglobulin used in pets. Pooled human IgG from thousands of donors providing broad-spectrum passive immunity and immunomodulation. Mechanisms include Fc receptor blockade (preventing platelet/RBC destruction in ITP/IMHA), anti-idiotype antibody neutralization, complement inhibition, and cytokine modulation.
What is Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) used for in pets?
Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for IMHA, ITP, immune-mediated skin disease (pemphigus), myasthenia gravis ; Same indications as dogs.
What is the Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) is typically dosed as follows — Used for IMHA, ITP, immune-mediated skin disease (pemphigus), myasthenia gravis : undefined undefined kg/h/increase to max 2 mL/kg/h) Once; may repeat once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) dose for cats?
For cats, Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) is typically dosed as follows — Same indications as dogs: undefined undefined IV Once; may repeat once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) need a prescription?
Yes. Immune Globulin, Intravenous (IVIG) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →