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Trade names | WinRho, RhoGAM, others: |
Other names | Rh0(D) immune globulin, anti-D (Rh0) immunoglobulin, immunoglobulinum humanum anti–D |
AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
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Routes of administration | Intramuscular injection |
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UNII | |
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Rho(D) immune globulin (RhIG) is a medication used to prevent RhD isoimmunization in mothers who are RhD negative and to treat idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in people who are Rh positive.[2] It is often given both during and following pregnancy.[2] It may also be used when RhD-negative people are given RhD-positive blood.[2] It is given by injection into muscle or a vein.[2] A single dose lasts 12 weeks.[2] It is made from human blood plasma.[3]
Common side effects include fever, headache, pain at the site of injection, and red blood cell breakdown.[2] Other side effects include allergic reactions, kidney problems, and a very small risk of viral infections.[2] In those with ITP, the amount of red blood cell breakdown may be significant.[2] Use is safe with breastfeeding.[2] Rho(D) immune globulin is made up of antibodies to the antigen Rho(D) present on some red blood cells.[2] It is believed to work by blocking a person's immune system from recognizing this antigen.[2]
Rho(D) immune globulin came into medical use in the 1960s,[4] following the pioneering work of John G. Gorman. In 1980, Gorman shared the Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award for pioneering work on the rhesus blood group system.[5]
RhIG is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[6][7]