Hizentra is a specialized prescription medication used to treat two distinct conditions: primary immune deficiency (PI) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).
Understanding the Conditions Treated by Hizentra
Hizentra, an immune globulin subcutaneous (human) product, provides vital antibodies that help the body fight off infections and manage certain neurological conditions.
1. Primary Immune Deficiency (PI)
Hizentra is approved for the treatment of primary immune deficiency (PI) in patients aged 2 years and older. PI is a group of more than 450 rare, chronic disorders in which part of the body's immune system is missing or functions improperly. Individuals with PI often have a reduced ability to fight infections due to a lack of sufficient antibodies.
- Key Aspects of PI Treatment:
- Immune Support: Hizentra provides the necessary antibodies that PI patients cannot produce adequately on their own.
- Infection Prevention: By supplementing antibodies, it helps reduce the frequency and severity of infections.
- Patient Age: Approved for use in children 2 years and older, as well as adults.
2. Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)
Hizentra is also used as maintenance therapy for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) in adults. CIDP is a rare neurological disorder characterized by progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the legs and arms. It is caused by damage to the myelin sheath, the protective covering of the nerves.
- Key Aspects of CIDP Treatment:
- Maintenance Therapy: It helps manage the ongoing symptoms and progression of CIDP after initial treatment.
- Neurological Support: The immune globulins are believed to modulate the immune system, reducing the inflammatory attack on nerve sheaths.
- Patient Group: Specifically approved for use in adults with CIDP.
Summary of Hizentra's Applications
| Condition | Patient Population | Treatment Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Immune Deficiency (PI) | Patients 2 years+ | To provide necessary antibodies and prevent infections |
| Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) | Adults | Maintenance therapy to manage neurological symptoms |
For more detailed information on its uses and administration, patients and healthcare providers can refer to comprehensive resources on immune globulin therapies.
