PALIVIZUMAB - INJECTION

PALIVIZUMAB - INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (PAL-i-VIZ-ue-mab)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Synagis

GENERIC NAME(S): palivizumab

Uses

USES: Palivizumab is used in certain infants and young children to prevent serious lung infections (such as pneumonia) that are caused by a certain virus (respiratory syncytial virus-RSV). Palivizumab works by preventing the growth of the virus. This medication is not used to treat RSV infection, but should be continued even if your child gets the RSV infection to prevent a more serious infection.


How to use PALIVIZUMAB - INJECTION

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your health care professional before your child starts receiving palivizumab and before each injection. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medication is given into a muscle (usually the thigh) by a health care professional as directed by your child's doctor, usually once a month during RSV season. RSV season in the northern hemisphere usually starts in November and runs through April. The dosage is based on your child's weight. Your child should receive this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark the days on a calendar when your child should receive the medication.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Fever or pain/redness/swelling at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that the doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to your child is greater than the risk of side effects. Many children using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using palivizumab, tell the doctor or pharmacist if your child is allergic to it; or if your child has any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell the doctor or pharmacist your child's medical history, especially of: bleeding/blood clotting problems (such as thrombocytopenia, coagulation disorder). Before having surgery (especially certain heart procedures), tell the doctor or dentist about this medication and all the products your child uses (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). This medication is not usually used in adults. It is unlikely to be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Consult your doctor if you have any questions about this medication

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including RSV diagnostic tests, virus culture tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for PALIVIZUMAB - INJECTION

- Palivizumab injection is used to prevent severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in infants and young children at high risk.

- Palivizumab is a monoclonal antibody that works by targeting and neutralizing the RSV virus, reducing the chances of severe infection.

- Palivizumab injections are typically given once a month during the RSV season, which usually lasts from November to April. The total number of injections will depend on the individual's risk factors.

- Infants born prematurely (before 29 weeks of gestation) and certain babies with chronic lung conditions, heart diseases or other high-risk factors are eligible for Palivizumab.

- The common side effects of Palivizumab injection include fever, rash, injection site reactions, runny or stuffy nose, and sore throat. Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible.

- The half-life of Palivizumab is approximately 20 days, but it is recommended to follow the prescribed dosing schedule to ensure continuous protection.

- No, Palivizumab is only approved for use in infants and young children at high risk of severe RSV infections. It is not recommended for use in older children or adults.

- No, Palivizumab is not a vaccine. It is a monoclonal antibody that provides passive immunity to RSV. Vaccines for RSV are currently under development.

- Palivizumab has been shown to reduce the severity of RSV infections in high-risk infants by approximately 55%, lowering the hospitalization rates related to RSV.



Disclaimer

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.