Palivizumab

What it is used for

Synagis is indicated for the prevention of serious lower respiratory tract disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in pediatric patients:

• with a history of premature birth (less than or equal to 35 weeks gestational age) and who are 6 months of age or younger at the beginning of RSV season,
• with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) that required medical treatment within the previous 6 months and who are 24 months of age or younger at the beginning of RSV season,
• with hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease (CHD) and who are 24 months of age or younger at the beginning of RSV season.

Side effects, and when to stop

The most serious adverse reactions occurring with Synagis are anaphylaxis and other acute hypersensitivity reactions.

Who should not take it

Synagis is contraindicated in children who have had a previous significant hypersensitivity reaction to Synagis.

Other medicines and interactions

No formal drug-drug interaction studies were conducted. In Trial 1, the proportions of children in the placebo and Synagis groups who received routine childhood vaccines, influenza vaccine, bronchodilators, or corticosteroids were similar and no incremental increase in adverse reactions was observed among children receiving these agents.

Storing it

Storage

Upon receipt and until use, Synagis should be stored between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F) in its original container. DO NOT freeze. DO NOT use beyond the expiration date.