Generic name: Rabies immune globulin (human)
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Imogam Rabies-HT?
Rabies immune globulin is used to protect people who have been bitten by animals (post-exposure). This medicine is given together with a full series of rabies vaccination. Rabies immune globulin by itself will not protect against rabies.
You will not need rabies immune globulin if you have received a rabies vaccine in the past.
Rabies immune globulin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- an allergic reaction to a human immune globulin product;
- an immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency;
- heart problems;
- coronary artery disease (clogged arteries);
- a stroke or blood clot;
- a blood cell or blood-clotting disorder;
- high triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood);
- an "in-dwelling" catheter; or
- if you have been bed-ridden.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Rabies immune globulin is made from donated human plasma and may contain viruses or other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of contamination, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Ask your doctor about any possible risk.
How should I use Imogam Rabies-HT
Use Imogam Rabies-HT (Intramuscular) 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.
Rabies immune globulin is injected into a muscle, or directly into or near the wound (animal bite or scratch) that exposed you to the rabies virus. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Rabies immune globulin is given when you receive the first of your series of rabies vaccine doses, or within 7 days afterward.
Be sure to receive all recommended doses of rabies vaccine or you may not be fully protected against disease.
Rabies immune globulin is used as a single dose and does not have a daily dosing schedule.
Imogam Rabies-HT side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- fever, chills; or
- dark urine.
Common side effects may include:
- headache;
- cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat;
- stomach pain, gas, diarrhea;
- muscle pain; or
- pain, swelling, itching, redness, or a hard lump where the shot was given.
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.
What other drugs will affect Imogam Rabies-HT?
Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using rabies immune globulin, and for at least 3 months afterward. The vaccine may not work as well and may not fully protect you from disease. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), polio, rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), and zoster (shingles).
Wait at least 4 months after receiving rabies immune globulin before you get a measles vaccine.