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IVIG for Complications of Small Pox Vaccination

The CDC reports that the largest threat of small pox to public health is from bioterrorism. Those at higher risk for contracting smallpox are those with weakened immune systems or those who would respond to an attack. The smallpox vaccine is comprised of a live virus that could cause infections in immunocompromised patients, people with skin infections, or those around them.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (VIGIV) that is used to treat certain rare complications of smallpox vaccination. VIGIV is made of protective antibodies produced by humans in response to booster immunizations with the licensed smallpox vaccine. These antibodies are taken from plasma and given to patients who are at risk of rare serious vaccine complications, such as a severe infection of the skin. This product is fairly safe with documented mild to moderate adverse effects such as hives, headaches, and other rashes. The FDA approved this product because it achieves high levels of antibodies in humans and it has a favorable safety profile.

FDA Talk Paper - T05-04
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/2005/ANS01341.html [Accessed February 24, 2005]

Chanda Saucerman, PharmD. Candidate