Some patients have conditions that improve over time e.g secondary antibody deficiency, in such cases taking someone off immunoglobulin to see if their own immunity is improved can be a very positive step.
In general there is no contraindication between having immunoglobulin therapy and killed vaccines, but if the two are given close together and there are high levels of antibody in the Ig to the vaccine then the efficacy is likely to be impaired. Please check with your immunology team about the appropriate timing.
Where possible infusions once started should be completed without interruption. For unavoidable emergencies, we suggest disconnecting the needles and disposing of them and placing the caps on the syringes so the immunoglobulin is stored safely and hygienically. When you restart the infusion use fresh new needles for your infusion. If the break in infusion is
You should carry your immunoglobulin in your hand luggage and take it into the cabin with you. It is recommended not to put immunoglobulin product in the hold because the hold’s temperature will cause it to freeze and this will affect its effectiveness.
It is normal for someone to suffer from fatigue after an infusion, especially if they are newly diagnosed. This feeling of tiredness should stop once their immunoglobulin levels are stable and they have been receiving treatment for a while.
Unfortunately we cannot give you a definite answer. Your immunology team will help ensure long-term patients are kept for as long as possible on a particular product. However there are factors beyond their control that might come into play. These include problems of supply of your particular product e.g. any unforeseen batch contamination issues or
The decision not to put you back on immunoglobulin (IG) will not have been made solely by your consultant but your case will have been discussed by the entire clinical immunology team before a decision was reached. It would be worth talking further to your consultant to discuss other treatments options such as prophylactic antibiotics
Take a look at this website page which has travel tips and our 'Going on Holiday' leaflet for some travelling trips. Travelling abroad with Immunoglobulin should be fine but please check the customs website of the country you are travelling to make sure.
Most patients with a PID who infuse in hospitals do so in open bays on a ward safely. Please do discuss your concerns with your immunology team. You may also want to explore alternative ways of having immunoglobulin therapy, such as subcutaneous delivery, as this could potentially lead to home therapy options.
Your clinic should give you advice about how to manage intercurrent infection. If you are not sure that you are unwell enough to need to take antibiotics, they may not be needed and you could wait until Monday. If it is a definite bacterial infection, then you should start antibiotics, following the guidance given to
IMPORTANT NOTE: The information contained on this website is intended only as a guideline, not as a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor
if you or your child has any immunodeficiency symptoms or concerns. © 2025 Immunodeficiency UK. All rights reserved | Registered charity number 1193166.
