Efficacy of a new intravenous immunoglobulin preparation in primary immunodeficient patients.

The safety and efficacy of a new second-generation intravenous immunoglobulin manufactured using ion-exchange chromatographic methods was studied in 17 patients with primary immunodeficiency. In assessing safety, the incidence of adverse reactions during the first 48 hours after each infusion and long-term changes in laboratory values were considered. Efficacy was determined by the number of acute and new chronic infections as well as by the number of prescriptions filled for antibiotics. These results were compared with those reported for similar preparations. Results showed a low (4.4%) incidence of acute adverse reactions, and no serious reactions or significant changes were noted in any of the laboratory test results. The incidences of infection and antibiotic usage were as low as or lower than those reported with other preparations. Thus we conclude that this new intravenous immunoglobulin product is a safe, effective prophylactic treatment for patients who have primary immunodeficiency.