Gamma Globulin: Inexpensive Treatment May Help Prevent Infections

Intramuscular gamma globulin, often used by travelers to
prevent hepatitis and other infections, might help to protect
against AIDS-related opportunistic infections. However, it
cannot protect against HIV itself.

This potential treatment was brought to our attention by
Joseph A. Hertell, M. D., an internist who treats AIDS
patients near Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Hertell was involved in
developing this medication in the early 1950s, when he was
medical director of the American National Red Cross. Dr.
Hertell is now using the Gammar brand, which costs about $30
for a multiple-use vial; he gives 2 cc of gamma globulin per
week. He believes that his patients are getting fewer
infections than they would otherwise, and that some are able
to resume work and other activities as a result.

For more information on this use of gamma globulin, see
"Gamma Globulin to Prevent Infections?" AIDS TREATMENT NEWS
#152, June 5, 1992.