Pooled human plasma is processed by cold ethanol fractionation to produce purified immunoglobulin G antibodies for intravenous administration. Immunoglobulin A is an unwanted by-product since intravenous administration of immunoglobulin A-containing immunoglobulin G can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis in some people. The present invention is the topical application of immunoglobulin A coupled with J chain, and optionally coupled with secretory component in order to render the immunoglobulin A more physiologically active, for the prevention or treatment of ocular diseases including ocular immune deficiency and infections. Antigen-specific monoclonal immunoglobulin A may be used.