Palivizumab (By injection)
pal-i-VIZ-yoo-mab
Prevents infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Drug classes
Antiviral, Immunological Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Palivizumab injection is used to prevent serious lung infection in children and babies caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It belongs to a group of medicines known as immunizing agents. This medicine works by giving your body antibodies to protect it against RSV infection.
RSV infection can cause serious problems that affect the lungs, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, and in severe cases can even cause death. These problems are more likely to occur in infants and children younger than 6 months of age with chronic lung disease and breathing problems. Babies who were born premature or babies who were born with heart disease may also have problems with RSV.
The onset of RSV activity usually occurs in November and continues through April, but it may begin earlier or continue later in certain communities. A good way to help prevent RSV infection is to receive palivizumab before the start of the RSV season.
This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
The doctor will prescribe the exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle.
Your child should receive the first shot of this medicine before the RSV season starts. During the RSV season, the medicine is given once every month.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Missed dose: This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you must cancel an appointment, make a new one as soon as possible.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Your child should not receive it if he or she had a severe allergic reaction to palivizumab.
Warnings
Tell the doctor if your child has any bleeding or blood-clotting problems.
Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Unusual muscle weakness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Synagis
There may be other brand names for this medicine.