Gammaguard vs. gamunex, does it matter?

[Joan Pandas Mom]

I know in the past I've read one is better than the other. Does anyone know? Thanks.

[browneyesmom]

Hmm... interesting question, Joan! dd11 had Gammunex in-patient at Christmas. Dr. B uses Gammugard and told us it is the same thing.

 

How is he doing?

[markincleveland]

I have had over 300 IViG infusions. I have a primary immune disease. There are currently 8 IViG products FDA approved for PIDDs.

The product all deliver IViG but they have significant differences. Some patients have terrible side effects for some and not from others. Some have sucrose as a base; not good for diabetics, others do not.

For whatever it's worth, Gamunex has studies that show it has the lowest amount of negative side effects. Gammagard is the most expensive the wholesale price could be as much as 35-50% more than Gamunex, but if you have IgA antibodies it is the advised product.

Since your infusions are for a relative short period of time, a seek for so, and ours are for a lifetime, I'm not sure the side effects issue makes as much of a difference.

[peglem]

I know in the past I've read one is better than the other. Does anyone know? Thanks.

I think by and large, the rx-ing doc decides what brand is best for the individual patient. Here's a side by side comparison of the different properties of several brands:

http://www.ashp.org/s_ashp/docs/files/DShort_IVIGsidebysideupdatedDec07.pdf

[Joan Pandas Mom]

Mark, what do you mean if you have IgA antibodies, Gammagard is the way to go? I think I am interpreting it right. I read if you have IgA deficiency, which my son does, it is better to use Gammagard.

[Joan Pandas Mom]

Thanks Denise and Peg. He isn't doing well. He is refusing to take the abx change to 300 mg. clindimycin TID. and a few other changes.

[melanie]

We've done both. Didn't see any difference.

[beeskneesmommy]

Thank you Peglem - tucking this one away... -Kath