This medication is used to prevent a certain serious
virus infection, rabies, in people who have been exposed to this virus
under certain conditions (such as a bite wound or non-bite wound by an
infected animal). This medication is made from healthy human blood that has
high levels of certain defensive substances (antibodies) that help fight
rabies infection.
Part of the dose of this medication is given by direct
injection by a health care professional into the area of the wound (bite or
non-bite). The remainder of your dose is given by injection into a muscle
by a health care professional. It is best to receive this medication as
soon as possible after exposure. If you wait too long after being exposed,
the medication may not work well. Your doctor may also recommend
vaccination after receiving this medication. Talk with your doctor about
the best treatment for you.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and
weight.
Redness, pain, or tenderness at the injection site may
occur. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, tiredness, headache, or
back/joint pain may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse,
tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before receiving rabies immune globulin, tell your
doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other immune globulin
products; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain
inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- a certain immune system problem (immunoglobulin A
deficiency)
- vaccination/immunization history
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana
(cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana
(cannabis).
This medication is made from human blood. Even though
the blood is carefully tested, and this medication goes through a special
manufacturing process, there is an extremely small chance that you may get
infections (such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease-CJD) from the medication.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor of any recent or planned
immunizations/vaccinations. This medication may prevent a good response to
certain live viral vaccines (such as measles, mumps, rubella, varicella).
If you have recently received any of these vaccines, your doctor may have
you tested for a response or have you vaccinated again later. If you plan
on getting any of these vaccines, your doctor will instruct you about the
best time to receive them so you get a good response.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests
(such as Coomb's test), possibly causing false test results. Tell all lab
personnel and all your doctors and pharmacists that you use this
medication.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as levels of antibody in
the blood) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all lab
appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or doctor's office and will not be stored at home.
