
pmid: 15207776
The use of small portable pumps for subcutaneous infusion of IgG in patients with primary immunodeficiencies was introduced more than 20 years ago. In the US, i.v.i.g. became more popular, but in other countries, many patients use the subcutaneous route. Pharmacokinetics of IgG differ when smaller doses are given more frequently, as is commonly done with subcutaneous regimens, as compared to the large boluses given every 21-28 days in most i.v. regimens. Differences include lower peaks and higher troughs, which may be preferable for some patients. Advantages of the subcutaneous route include increased patient autonomy, decreased systemic adverse effects, and the lack of a requirement for vascular access. Disadvantages include limitation in the volume that can be administered at any one time, necessitating frequent dosing; and the requirement for reliability if a patient is to self or home infuse. Obstacles may be encountered because no preparation of IgG is currently licensed for subcutaneous use in the US. Subcutaneous IgG replacement may be preferable to i.v. infusions or i.m. injections for carefully selected patients.
Adult, Male, Injections, Subcutaneous, Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes, Immunoglobulins, Humans, Patient Compliance, Infusions, Intravenous, Home Infusion Therapy, Infusion Pumps
Adult, Male, Injections, Subcutaneous, Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes, Immunoglobulins, Humans, Patient Compliance, Infusions, Intravenous, Home Infusion Therapy, Infusion Pumps
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 179 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Top 1% | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% |
