Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig)
Varicella zoster immune globulin is used in adults and children with a weak immune system, pregnant women, and babies (including newborn or premature infants) who could become severely ill after exposure to varicella zoster virus.
Varicella zoster immune globulin is used in people who have come into contact with varicella virus. This medicine can help keep symptoms of the virus from becoming severe or life-threatening.
This medicine will not treat an infection that has already developed in the body.
Your doctor will make sure varicella zoster immune globulin is the right treatment for you.
Varicella zoster immune globulin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
uses
What is Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig) used for?
- Varicella-Zoster -- Prophylaxis
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig)?
You should not be treated with this medicine if:
- you have had an allergic reaction to an immune globulin; or
- you have immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency; or
- known IgA antibodies in your blood.
Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:
- heart disease, coronary artery disease (hardened arteries);
- a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;
- low blood platelets
- blood circulation problems;
- if you are scheduled to receive a vaccine;
- if you have ever had an allergic reaction;
- a history of stroke or blood clot; or
- a condition that makes you unable to move as normal.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Your doctor should determine whether you need this medicine. Having chickenpox during pregnancy may cause complications or medical problems in the baby.
Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.
Varicella zoster immune globulin is made from human plasma (part of the blood) which may contain viruses and other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of it containing infectious agents, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Some side effects may occur after the injection. You will be watched for a short time to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction. You will be treated quickly if there is a reaction.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe nausea or vomiting;
- signs of a blood clot in the brain--sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body), slurred speech, problems with vision or balance;
- signs of a blood clot in the heart or lung--chest pain, rapid heart rate, sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, coughing up blood;
- signs of a blood clot in your leg--pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs; or
- signs of a new infection--fever, chills, flu symptoms, mouth sores, pain when swallowing.
Serious side effects may be more likely in older adults.
Common side effects may include:
- headache; or
- pain where the medicine was injected.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Your doctor should determine whether you need this medicine. Having chickenpox during pregnancy may cause complications or medical problems in the baby.
Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig)?
Avoid receiving a "live" vaccine for at least 3 months after receiving varicella zoster immune globulin. The vaccine may not work as well after receiving varicella zoster immune globulin. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), and zoster (shingles).
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig)?
Use Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Varicella zoster immune globulin is injected into a muscle. A healthcare provider will give you this injection. Your dose may need to be injected in more than one place in your body.
Doses are based on weight. Your dose may change if you gain or lose weight.
Varicella zoster immune globulin should be given as soon as possible (within 96 hours) after you have been exposed to varicella zoster virus.
This medicine is usually given only once. However, in some cases your doctor may recommend a second dose, especially if you are re-exposed to varicella zoster virus more than 3 weeks after your injection.
Since this medicine is usually given only once, you are not likely to miss a dose. Call your doctor if you do not receive all recommended doses.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin (Varizig)?
In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.