Last winter I had IVIG infusions every month from Oct to April. I never experienced the symptoms you mentioned. At the beginning the drip rate was slow and was a 4 hour infusion. Once the nurses realized I had no acute reactions like nausea, high/low blood pressure, headaches or flushing, they sped the drip rate up so I could get out in 3 hrs not 4. It was only when I had a combination of IVIG and Zometa for bone strengthening, did I have symptoms of headaches and flu-like symptoms for a day or two. I think Vicki may be right. Tell the nurses about your symptoms and ask if they could slow the drip rate at each interval down. Let them know you don’t mind spending an extra hour in the chair. Also, drink fluids (!) both before, during and after an IVIG infusion - it’s one of the most effective ways to lower your risk of side effects too!

I too had my first infusion on October 3rd that day I had a headache and flu like symptoms sleep most of the day the next day I made myself go to work and felt worse so won't be making that mistake again. Hope you feel better on your next infusion. Priscilla Resendez

@A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Hi Joy,

If you had severe headaches and swelling after an IVIG infusion, it sounds like the drip rate on your IVIG infusion may have been too high. Before your next infusion, try to find out what the drip rate of the machine was. The machine has a setting on it that controls the flow of the medicine.

At my first infusion, the RN told me they were going to keep the drip rate on the machine low. And, I did very well during the infusion. Durring the second infusion, the RN asked if I was OK after the first infusion and I told her I was. She told me she was going to increase the drip rate that time. And, that time I didn't do so well. I felt sick. I don't recall the symptoms. It took three to four days before I felt better again. Fortunately, I only require infusions about every 8 months. And, now that I'm off Revlimid, my IgG levels should start to increase back into the normal range on their own, so that I won't need them again.

Vicki7 😊

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A MyMyelo...

I haven’t had it yet. I have refused it because I am scared!!! Also I don’t want to sit in a chair for 3-5 hours. It sounds like a debilitating setback !!!

They give me a infusion of Benadryl before the IVIG to help with any side effects