Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin Therapy FAQs

Cutaquig is a 16.5% high-purity immune globulin solution containing normal human immunoglobulin G (IgG) for subcutaneous infusion indicated for treatment of primary immunodeficiency (PI) in adults and children 2 years and older. It can be used to replace antibodies in people with PI and help protect against infections.

Antibodies are proteins in your body.¹ Their main function is to attach to and identify bacteria or other pathogens so that your immune system can destroy them.

Cutaquig is made from human plasma that is donated by healthy people. Cutaquig contains antibodies collected from these healthy people to replace the antibodies adult PI patients are missing.¹

Each preparation is made from a pool of US-sourced human plasma frozen within 8 hours of collection, also known as fresh frozen plasma. The plasma used for the manufacture of cutaquig is obtained from collection centers in the United States that are inspected by the maker of cutaquig and are FDA licensed. All donations must pass virus testing that complies with FDA regulations.^1,3

Cutaquig is administered subcutaneously—that is, into the layer of tissue between the skin and muscle.¹ Infusion sites include the upper arm, abdomen, upper leg/hip area, and/or thigh.¹

With SCIg therapy, there is a low rate of side effects—mostly mild to moderate local infusion site reactions, including but not limited to redness, swelling, and itching.^1,4 You may experience some of these, especially if you are newly starting SCIg therapy.² Talk about any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, who may be able to help you address them.¹

Another advantage of SCIg is a sense of freedom. You don’t have to go to an office or a medical appointment for an infusion. You can schedule your infusions when you want. Plus, there is a low rate of absences from work or school due to infection.^5,6

In a US and Canadian study in 2006, 81% of patients preferred SCIg over IVIg, whereas 19% preferred IVIg. In a 2008 study in Sweden, all preferred SCIg. More recently, in a German study in 2010, 92% preferred SCIg and only 8% preferred IVIg.⁶

SCIg is usually given weekly, compared with IVIg regimens in which a large dose is given every 3rd or 4th week.² Cutaquig can be given weekly, every other week, or 2 to 7 times per week.

Keep cutaquig in the outer carton to protect it from exposure to light. Do not freeze cutaquig. You can store cutaquig at 36°F-46°F (+2°C to +8°C) for up to 36 months from the date of manufacture. Within its shelf-life, the product may be stored at room temperature up to 77°F (up to +25°C) for up to 6 months without being refrigerated again during this period, and must be discarded if not used after this.

Do not use cutaquig after the expiration date printed on the vial.

Dispose of all materials, including any unused cutaquig, in an appropriate container.

Over time, the dose may need to be adjusted by your healthcare provider to achieve the desired clinical response.¹

As long as your doctor feels your PI treatment is necessary. There are no long-term effects of IG. IG is a natural human antibody, and you can stay on the drug indefinitely. In fact, people with PI remain on it for a lifetime.²