Imogam Rabies-HT (human)

Generic name: rabies immune globulin (human) (test)
Brand names: HyperRAB, Imogam Rabies-HT, Kedrab, Bayrab human
Drug class: Immune globulins

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 16, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Imogam Rabies-HT?

Imogam Rabies-HT is used to protect people who have been bitten by animals (post-exposure). Imogam Rabies-HT is given together with a full series of rabies vaccination. This medicine by itself will not protect against rabies.

You will not need Imogam Rabies-HT if you have received a rabies vaccine in the past.

Imogam Rabies-HT may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

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.

Imogam Rabies-HT may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• fever, chills; or

• dark urine.

Common side effects of Imogam Rabies-HT 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.

Warnings

Imogam Rabies-HT is given together with a full series of rabies vaccination. Imogam Rabies-HT by itself will not protect against rabies.

Before taking this medicine

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.

Imogam Rabies-HT 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 is Imogam Rabies-HT given?

Imogam Rabies-HT 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.

Imogam Rabies-HT 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.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Imogam Rabies-HT is used as a single dose and does not have a daily dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since Imogam Rabies-HT is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving Imogam Rabies-HT?

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using Imogam Rabies-HT, 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 Imogam Rabies-HT before you get a measles vaccine.

What other drugs will affect Imogam Rabies-HT?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

Other drugs may affect Imogam Rabies-HT, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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