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Cytogam (injection)

Generic Name: cytomegalovirus immune globulin (CMV IG) (injection) (SYE toe MEG a loe VYE rus im MYOON GLOB yoo lin)
Brand Name: Cytogam

What is Cytogam (cytomegalovirus immune globulin (CMV IG) injection)?

CMV IG is a sterilized solution made from human plasma. It contains the antibodies to help your body protect itself against infection with cytomegalovirus.

CMV IG is used to help prevent infection by cytomegalovirus in people who receive an organ transplant (kidney, heart, liver, lung, or pancreas).

CMV IG may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Cytogam (cytomegalovirus immune globulin (CMV IG) injection)?

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an immune globulin or if you have immune globulin A (IgA) deficiency with antibody to IgA.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I receive CMV IG?


To make sure CMV IG is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • kidney disease;

  • diabetes;

  • history of heart disease or stroke;

  • if you are older than 65;

  • if you have been sick with vomiting or diarrhea; or

  • if you are dehydrated or have low blood pressure.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether CMV IG will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.

CMV IG is made from human plasma (part of the blood) which may contain viruses and other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of it containing infectious agents, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

It is not known whether CMV IG passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is CMV IG given?

CMV IG is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

CMV IG is usually given within 72 hours after your transplant. You will then receive several more doses every 2 to 4 weeks afterward.

While receiving CMV IG, you may need frequent blood tests. Your kidney function may also need to be checked.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of CMV IG.

What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while receiving CMV IG?

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using CMV IG. The vaccine may not work as well during this time, and may not fully protect you from disease. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), polio, rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), zoster (shingles), and nasal flu (influenza) vaccine.

CMV IG side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; wheezing, difficult breathing; dizziness, feeling like you might pass out; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • blue lips, pale or blue colored appearance in your fingers or toes;

  • a red blood cell disorder--pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, confusion or weakness;

  • signs of a kidney problem--swelling, rapid weight gain, and little or no urinating;

  • lung problems--chest pain, severe shortness of breath, wheezing, cough with foamy mucus, fast or uneven heart rate; or

  • signs of new infection--high fever, flu symptoms, mouth sores, severe headache, neck stiffness, increased sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting; or

  • signs of a blood clot--sudden numbness or weakness, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance; sudden cough, rapid breathing, coughing up blood; pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs.

Common side effects may include:

  • chills;

  • mild nausea, vomiting;

  • joint pain;

  • back pain, muscle cramps; or

  • flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).


See also: Side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect CMV IG?

CMV IG can harm your kidneys. This effect is increased when you also use certain other medicines, including: antivirals, chemotherapy, injected antibiotics, medicine for bowel disorders, medicine to prevent organ transplant rejection, injectable osteoporosis medication, and some pain or arthritis medicines (including aspirin, Tylenol, Advil, and Aleve).

Other drugs may interact with cytomegalovirus immune globulin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about CMV IG.


Date modified: July 02, 2017
Last reviewed: March 13, 2014