From 4 April 2022 the National Blood Authority (NBA) has advised that some patients will transition to another intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) product, who have the following conditions:

• Pemphigus vulgaris
• Pyoderma Gangrenosum
• Bullous pemphigoid
• Scleromyxedema
• Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) adults only
• Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN)
• Myasthenia gravis (MG)

Clinicians treating patients with the conditions listed above are aware of the change.

The NBA consulted with clinical experts through the National Immunoglobulin Governance Advisory Committee (NIGAC) to minimise the impact on the smallest number of patients possible.

Changing to another product can be stressful for the patient, clinician and hospital. Patients or carers should discuss any concerns with their treating clinician. Additionally, the NPS MedicineWise ViP Ig pamphlet Switching Immunoglobulin Products – What Should I know? What Can I Do? may be useful. More information is also available at www.blood.gov.au

This news item was issued on 5 April 2022 by Jill Smith, CEO of ASCIA, the peak professional body for clinical immunology and allergy in Australia and New Zealand.