palivizumab - injection, Synagis

BRAND NAME(S): Synagis

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

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.

SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, fever, cough, earache, runny nose, or pain/redness/swelling at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact the 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.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: Before using palivizumab, tell your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child is allergic to it; or to mouse proteins; 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.Tell the doctor your child's medical history, especially of: bleeding/blood clotting problems (e.g., thrombocytopenia, coagulation disorder), recent heart bypass surgery.

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.Some products that may interact with this drug include: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin, heparins).This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including RSV diagnostic tests, virus culture tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor for side effects and response to treatment.

MISSED DOSE: For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

STORAGE: Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.

Information last revised March 2013. Copyright(c) 2013 First Databank, Inc.

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