Name of the Procedure:

Injection of Immune Globulin (Xembify), 100 mg
Common Name(s): Xembify injection
Technical/Medical Term: Human immune globulin subcutaneous injection

Summary

Xembify is an immune globulin injection used to boost the immune system by providing necessary antibodies. It is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) to patients who have certain immune deficiency conditions.

Purpose

Medical Conditions/Problems Addressed:

• Primary Immunodeficiency (PI)

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• Enhance the immune system by providing essential antibodies.
• Reduce the frequency and severity of infections.

Indications

Specific Symptoms/Conditions:

• Recurrent, severe infections
• Diagnosed immune deficiency, specifically Primary Immunodeficiency (PI)

Patient Criteria:

• Patients diagnosed with Primary Immunodeficiency
• Patients who respond inadequately to other treatments or who need supplemental antibody therapy

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No specific fasting is typically required.
• Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are currently taking.
• Ensure any skin area for injection is clean and free from infection.

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• Blood tests to assess baseline immune levels.
• Allergies to any components of the medication should be ruled out.

Procedure Description

1. Setup: The healthcare provider will gather all necessary supplies: Xembify solution, syringes, alcohol wipes, and clean gauze.
2. Preparation: The patient will be asked to sit or lie down comfortably. The injection site is cleaned with an alcohol wipe.
3. Injection: Using a small needle, the healthcare provider will inject Xembify subcutaneously, often in the fatty tissue of the abdomen or thigh.
4. Post-Injection Care: The injection site is then covered with gauze and monitored for any immediate reactions.

Tools/Equipment Used:

• Syringes
• Alcohol wipes
• Clean gauze

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Generally not required, as it is a minor subcutaneous injection.

Duration

• The injection itself typically takes about 30 minutes.

Setting

• Usually performed in an outpatient clinic or at a healthcare provider’s office.

Personnel

• Administered by a trained healthcare professional, such as a nurse or a doctor.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site
• Mild pain or discomfort

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reactions
• Infection at the injection site

Possible Complications:

• Anaphylactic reaction, managed by prompt administration of epinephrine and emergency care.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Improved immune function
• Decreased frequency and severity of infections

Timeframe for Benefits:

• Benefits are typically noticed within several weeks of consistent treatment.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor the injection site for any signs of infection.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Generally, no significant downtime is required, patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.

Restrictions/Follow-Up Appointments:

• Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor blood levels and immune response.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIG)
• Antibiotic prophylaxis

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• IVIG may be preferred for patients with venous access issues but involves more intensive monitoring.
• Antibiotics may be beneficial short-term but do not provide the same immune system support.

Patient Experience

During Procedure:

• Minor discomfort or stinging sensation at the injection site.

After Procedure:

• Mild soreness or swelling at the injection site, which usually resolves in a few hours.
• Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses if needed.