In the past, supplies of immunoglobulin from different manufacturers have been withdrawn from time to time. This has happened because, for example, a batch of immunoglobulin has caused a reaction, such as an itchy rash. Another problem is that immunoglobulin is being used to treat many more different diseases, not just immune deficiency. Immunoglobulin costs more in some countries, so manufacturers make a greater profit in different parts of the world.
In the past, there have been occasions when supplies of an immunoglobulin product became very low. People on an affected product had to switch to a different one at very short notice.
For these reasons, the UK Government has taken steps to ensure we have a good supply of immunoglobulin at a national level. These steps include negotiating immunoglobulin prices and supplies with the manufacturer. The Department of Health also runs a scheme to make sure that if a crisis develops, immunoglobulin is reserved for patients who really need it, particularly people with immune deficiency.
