Looking for IVIG Copay Assistance? We may be able to help.

Once your doctor has prescribed IVIG treatment, you will most likely need a prior authorization from your insurance. This process can often be time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be with QuickRx on your side. Once we’ve received your prescription we’ll work with your doctor and/or insurance company to help facilitate the process.

What to do if your insurance denies coverage:

1. Request a written explanation of the denial

2. Work with your provider to submit an appeal

3. Include additional test results or second opinions if available

4. Have your doctor write a letter of medical necessity

Don’t give up—many initial denials are reversed on appeal

While side effects will vary between patients and their medications, here is a list of the most common side effects;

Common side effects

These are typically mild to moderate and short-lived (usually within 24–48 hours):

• Headache (most common side effect)

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue or tiredness

• Fever or chills

• Muscle aches (myalgia)

• Flu-like symptoms

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Mild chest discomfort or back pain

• Redness, swelling, or discomfort at injection site (more common with subcutaneous infusions)

• Mild blood pressure changes (high or low)

• Rash or mild skin reactions

• Joint pain (arthralgia)

Less common but more serious side effects;

These may require medical evaluation and could happen in patients with certain risk factors:

• Aseptic meningitis (severe headache, neck stiffness, fever, nausea, photophobia)

• Hemolytic anemia (fatigue, dark urine, shortness of breath)

• Thrombosis (blood clots) – including deep vein thrombosis, stroke, or pulmonary embolism

• Kidney dysfunction or acute renal failure (rare but serious)

• Serum sickness-like reaction (rash, joint pain, fever, lymph node swelling)

• Severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis (especially in patients with IgA deficiency)

• Shortness of breath or respiratory distress

• Chest pain or palpitations

• Severe hypotension (dangerously low blood pressure)

Rare and very serious side effects;

Usually seen with high doses, rapid infusion, or underlying medical conditions:

• Agranulocytosis or neutropenia (low white blood cell count)

• Aseptic meningitis syndrome (AMS)

• Hepatic dysfunction or liver enzyme elevations

• Seizures (very rare)

• Thrombotic events involving major organs (heart, lungs, brain)

The duration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) side effects varies, but most common side effects resolve within a few days:

• Mild Side Effects (Hours to 48 Hours): Headache (most common), fatigue, chills, nausea, low-grade fever, flushing, and mild blood pressure changes.

• Moderate Side Effects (1-3 Days): Severe headaches, flu-like symptoms, and joint pain.

• Rare but Serious Side Effects (Days to Weeks): Aseptic meningitis, hemolytic anemia, thrombosis, and kidney dysfunction.

• Most begin during or within a few hours after the infusion

• Mild side effects usually resolve within 1–3 days

• Serious reactions can be delayed and may develop up to 72 hours post-infusion

Talk to your doctor about what to expect with your medication. IVIG doesn’t work the same for everyone. Here’s what to expect based on the condition being treated:

For Primary Immunodeficiency (PI)

• When it works: Usually immediately to protect against infections

• What improves: Fewer infections, reduced severity, and quicker recovery

• Timeline: Patients often notice fewer infections within the first month of treatment

For Neurological Conditions (CIDP, MMN, Myasthenia Gravis)

• When it works: May take 1 to 3 weeks after the first dose

• What improves: Muscle strength, mobility, reduced numbness or tingling

• Timeline: Some patients feel better after the first infusion, others may need several rounds

For Autoimmune or Inflammatory Conditions (ITP, Kawasaki Disease, Lupus)

• When it works: Often within 24–72 hours after infusion for acute flares

• What improves: Platelet counts, inflammation, rash, fatigue

• Timeline: IVIG can work very quickly in urgent situations like ITP or Kawasaki disease

Consult with your doctor to discuss what you’ll need to do to prepare for your IVIG treatment, especially if you’re considering taking any other medications beforehand.

• Hydrate – Start drinking fluids (water, electrolyte drinks, herbal tea) 1–2 days before your infusion to help prevent headaches.

• Sleep Well – Get 7–9 hours of rest the night before to support your immune system.

• Eat Light – Have a small, balanced meal with protein and carbs before your appointment.

• Take Premeds (if prescribed) – Follow your doctor’s instructions on medications like acetaminophen, antihistamines, or steroids—usually taken 30–60 minutes before.

• Dress for Comfort – Wear loose clothes and bring a sweater or blanket.

• Plan Ahead – Infusions may take 2–6 hours. Clear your schedule and arrange any needed help at home.