There is no specific amount and it's not usually as big a deal with subq. I had aseptic meningitis every month for 3 years on IVIG. Switched to subq and never got so much as a headache. Subq is a MUCH smaller dose, infused into your subq tissue, just below the skin and your body absorbs it. Not nearly as invasive as IVIG. I would just recommend a hydrating the day before, for me (I don't do that now, i don't premedicate or use numbing cream either) try a tall bottle of Smart Water the day before (if you already drink more than that, great) and I keep Gatorade on hand all the time just in case I get a head ache. Good luck!

Thanks, Kelli! You are a treasure. I am at increased risk for asceptic meningitis because of migraine history I am told, and because I also have systemic lupus. When you had it all those years (I CANNOT IMAGINE WHAT YOU WENT THROUGH) did you go in to the hospital each time?

So glad I am switching to subq. Thanks again.

I did not go to the hospital as I had no idea what was actually happening at the time. I was a horrible advocate for myself back then. I frantically searched online and found a great forum where a wonderful man took me under his wing and made a ton of suggestions, tweaking of infusions, brands, infusions speeds, medications, hydrations, etc...by the time I found what worked for me my new immuno switched me to subq and I never looked back.

Here's what worked for me: Smart water the day before, drink several if you can, no pressure, just do more than normal. For me AFTER the infusion was the worst, not during..and only Gatorade took the edge off the migraines. I started drinking gatorade when I got home from my IvIG. I no longer have to do this of course. But I am switching to Hyqvia starting friday and I'm at increased risk too, so I'll be practicing my own advice ;)

Good luck on Friday! It's been 7 hrs since the nurse left, and so far so good. Just a normal headache, not bad. Still swilling away at the water, though.

(The nurse said it was the smallest dose of Gammagard he'd ever given, so I think my new immunologist is being ultra cautious, thank goodness. Weekly infusions.)

You were right about the un-horribleness of the procedure, too. Thanks again for the hand-holding. If I can get through tomorrow without bad side effects, I'll be thrilled.

Out of curiosity, what was your dose?

I remember he said "60, and it's usually at least 200." I think the immunologist was just trying to see if I could tolerate it at all. But no side effects at all, except for a not-too-bad headache after the nurse left. And I felt so well today that it made me realize how bad I'd been feeling for a long time!

Hi Kelli! I haven't been here in a L O N G T I M E!!!! So happy that you got the fluid in your ears under control. I'm back on this site, and it is UNREAL to me how many people are here. Anyways, you are a GODSEND. TTYL