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Rabies Immune Globulin

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 24, 2026

Rabies Immune Globulin (Human) is a blood product containing antibodies against the rabies virus, used as part of post-exposure prophylaxis after potential rabies exposure such as animal bites or scratches. It provides immediate passive immunity while the rabies vaccine stimulates the body to develop its own protective antibodies. This medication is administered once, typically alongside the first dose of rabies vaccine.

Quick summary

A passive immunization product providing immediate rabies protection when combined with vaccine after suspected exposure.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 24, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
J06BB05
RxNorm
89886
Generic
Rabies Immune Globulin, Human
Class
atc-j06
Brands
Imogam, Kedrab, HyperRAB
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
—
Forms
injection
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)intramuscular injection
Usual dose
20 IU/kg body weight (maximum 1500-2000 IU)
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
single dose, preferably within 24 hours of exposure
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)intramuscular injection
Usual dose
20 IU/kg body weight
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
single dose, preferably within 24 hours of exposure
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Single dose significantly exceeding recommended 20 IU/kg (maximum 2000 IU) that may cause serious toxicity
Chronic overdose: Not applicable - typically administered as single dose for post-exposure prophylaxis; repeated dosing not recommended
Immediate actions
Discontinue infusion immediately, maintain airway and adequate perfusion, administer epinephrine for anaphylaxis, monitor vital signs
Antidote
No specific antidote exists(Supportive care only; manage symptoms aggressively)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

6 groups
⚠

pregnancy

all trimesters
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment

Key Recommendations

use when benefits outweigh risks; rabies postexposure prophylaxis is not contraindicated during pregnancy

Monitor

standard prenatal monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

lactation

breastfeeding
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

compatible with breastfeeding; continue breastfeeding after administration

Monitor

none specific

✓

pediatric_age

neonates infants
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

dose based on weight (20 IU/kg) same as adults

Key Recommendations

can be administered to children of all ages including infants; no age restrictions

Monitor

standard pediatric monitoring

✓

geriatric

elderly
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment; use standard weight-based dosing

Key Recommendations

can be used in elderly patients; no dosage modification required

Monitor

standard geriatric monitoring

⚠

renal_impairment

severe
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment; monitor renal function

Key Recommendations

use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment; monitor for infusion reactions

Monitor

monitor renal function and for signs of infusion reaction

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

hepatic_impairment

severe
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

can be used in patients with hepatic impairment; no dosage modification required

Monitor

standard hepatic function monitoring

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingFDA
2023

First FDA approval

Value:1970s

Historical FDA approval timeline for rabies immune globulin products

drug_classWHO
2023

Drug class

Value:Immune globulin

Biological product classification

usageCDC
2023

Primary indication

Value:Post-exposure prophylaxis for rabies

Primary therapeutic use when administered with rabies vaccine

administrationWHO
2023

Dosing approach

Value:20 IU/kg body weight

Standard recommended dose for post-exposure prophylaxis

Post-exposure prophylaxis against rabies in individuals exposed to potentially rabid animals, including bites, scratches, or other contact that may transmit the rabies virus. It is used when the exposure warrants both immune globulin and vaccination series.

Contains concentrated antibodies (immunoglobulins) that recognize and neutralize rabies virus at the wound site and in the bloodstream. This provides immediate but temporary protection while the rabies vaccine induces longer-lasting active immunity.

Should be administered as soon as possible after exposure, ideally with the first vaccine dose. Infiltrated around the wound site when anatomically feasible, with any remainder given intramuscularly at a different site. Patients with severe allergies to immunoglobulin products or certain bleeding disorders may require special consideration. Not a substitute for the rabies vaccine series.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy