Synagis (Palivizumab) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Synagis

Respiratory Syncytial Virus »

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) facts

RSV is a highly contagious virus infection that most commonly causes illness during the winter season.
Most children who develop an RSV infection have mild symptoms of fever, nasal congestion, and nasal discharge.
High-risk groups are more likely to have a more severe disease process, including wheezing (bronchiolitis in infants) and/or pneumonia. Such high-risk groups include premature infants, those children with a compromised immune system, or those with chronic pulmonary disease or congenital/acquired cardiac disease.
Supportive care is the mainstay of therapy. For high-risk patients, palivizumab (Synagis) preventative therapy is available.

What is the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), discovered in 1956, is capable of causing a broad spectrum of illnesses. Older children and adults will commonly e...

Read the Respiratory Syncytial Virus article »

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Synagis Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

PALIVIZUMAB - INJECTION

(pal-ih-VYE-zyou-mab)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Synagis

USES: Palivizumab is used in certain infants and young children to prevent infections of the breathing tubes and lungs that are caused by a certain virus (respiratory syncytial virus-RSV). It is known as a monoclonal antibody, and it works by preventing the growth of RSV. This medication is not used to treat RSV infection.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your doctor or pharmacist before your child starts receiving palivizumab and before each injection. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given into the muscle by a health care professional, usually once a month during RSV season or as directed by your child's doctor. Dosage is based on your child's weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.

For the most benefit from this drug, keep all scheduled medical appointments, and make sure your child receives each prescribed dose of this medication during RSV season. In the northern hemisphere, RSV season is usually November through April. Continue monthly injections even if your child has a RSV infection. Even if your child has been infected with RSV, he or she may become infected again.

A certain heart surgery (coronary artery bypass graft-CABG) can decrease the effectiveness of palivizumab. If your child has this surgery, he or she should receive the next dose of this medication as soon as possible after the surgery, even if it has been less than 1 month since the last injection.