Human Rabies Immunoglobulin Injection (HRIG) contains Human Rabies Immunoglobulin as an active agent. It is indicated to prevent passive, transient rabies infection after exposure to a rabid animal (dogs, mongooses, jackals, foxes). This injection is formulated from blood plasma from screened donors. Rabies infection spreads when a person is bitten, scratched, or licked by an infected animal, especially when the skin is already injured. Though this infection is 100% fatal, it is 100% preventable with timely measures and the correct use of available vaccines, immunoglobulins, or monoclonal antibodies. The first hepatitis B vaccine was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on December 22, 1999, for post-exposure prophylaxis against rabies.

Hepatitis B Vaccine is used to Prevention of rabies infection post-exposure to a rabid animal.

Human Rabies Immunoglobulin is administered as an injection, usually by a healthcare professional. The injection is typically given into the muscle or at the site of the bite wound.

Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG) is generally considered safe, but like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, headache, fever, and nausea. Serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions and neurological disorders are rare.

HRIG can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in some individuals. It can interfere with the immune response to live virus vaccines, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, and oral polio vaccine. The infection is derived from human blood plasma and may carry the risk of transmitting blood-borne infections, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.

Individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to any vaccine component should not receive it. Individuals receiving this should wait at least 3 months before receiving any live virus vaccine. After administration, it is recommended to remain at the healthcare facility for some time to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions and to report any delayed or persistent symptoms to your healthcare provider.

It is important to carefully read and understand the warnings and precautions associated with the medication. Patients should report to the doctor if they have any infusion reactions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before taking it. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any allergies, medical conditions, or medications you take. Human Rabies Immunoglobulin may also interfere with the immune response to live virus vaccines, and there is a small risk of transmitting blood-borne infections. Always maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support your overall health and well-being.

1. Bio Products Laboratory Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Sep 2020] [Accessed on 10th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5543.pdf
2. Kedrion Biopharma Inc., US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on 2020] [Accessed on 10th May 2023], https://www.fda.gov/media/106795/download
3. Sudarshan MK. World Health Organization 2018 Guidelines on Rabies Prophylaxis: Contentious Issues. Pediatr Inf Dis 2019;1(4):154–156, https://www.pidjournal.com/doi/PID/pdf/10.5005/jp-journals-10081-1226

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.