Various immunoglobulin preparations for intravenous use.

In recent years, a number of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) preparations have become available, primarily in Europe. Since these preparations differ in their physical, chemical and biologic properties, the physician is frequently presented with difficulties in selecting an appropriate product. Until now, in vitro studies have been the only reliable source of evaluating these preparations. This paper describes the commercially available IVIG preparations and assesses the properties of each.