Intravenous and Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin in the Management of Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders: Updates for Specialty Pharmacists

Description:,The incidence of primary immunodeficiency diseases (PID) continues to increase, with estimates that 83 in 100,000 people receive a diagnosis of PID each year. PID can cover between 240 to 400 types of immune deficiencies, and with the variable symptoms and often common presentations, diagnosis of PID can be delayed as long as 20 years. The mainstay of treatment for PID is the administration of intravenous or subcutaneous immunoglobulin (IVIg, SCIg), but patients require this treatment continuously, which contributes to the overall burden of the disease. Pharmacists must be well versed in the differences in IVIg and SCIg formulations, as even slight differences in the composition may have a significant impact on the health of patients with PID. The main drivers of health care utilization costs in PID as well as the treatment burden for patients will also be presented, with a focus on patient-specific strategies pharmacists can incorporate into their practice to reduce the impact of PID on patient quality of life.,Educational Objectives:,At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:,• Explain the pathophysiology and clinical challenges of common primary immunodeficiency disorder (PID),• Distinguish intravenous and subcutaneous immunoglobulins for PID, including dosing, efficacy, and unique characteristics of products,• Identify the role of the specialty pharmacist in the management of PID as well as considerations for subcutaneous and intravenous initiation, administration, and adverse effect management