Intravenous immunoglobulin 10% in children with primary immunodeficiency diseases.

AIM: To assess the safety and efficacy of an intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) 10% preparation (Panzyga® ; Octapharma AG, Lachen, Switzerland) in predominantly antibody-deficient children with primary immunodeficiency disease.

METHODS: Data from two prospective, open-label and noncontrolled multicenter Phase III studies of IVIG 10% that included 25 patients <16 years of age were analyzed for efficacy, pharmacokinetics and safety.

RESULTS: The rate of serious bacterial infections was 0.04/patient-year. A maximal infusion rate of 0.14 ml/kg/min was achieved in 82% of pediatric patients (n = 9). Infusions of immunoglobulin G trough levels between infusions remained ≥5-6 g/l; median half-life was 32.79-36.62 days. Abdominal pain, headache and chills were the most common treatment-related adverse events.

CONCLUSION: IVIG 10% is safe and effective for the treatment of predominantly antibody-deficient children.