Information about Synagis (Palivizumab)
Synagis is a prescription medication known generically as palivizumab. It is a monoclonal antibody that is primarily used for the prevention of serious respiratory infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), especially in high-risk pediatric populations.
Product Highlights
- Synagis is indicated for the prevention of serious lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in:
- Premature infants (born at < 29 weeks of gestational age).
- Infants with chronic lung disease of prematurity (CLD) or bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).
- Infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) who are at high risk for severe RSV infection.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Synagis significantly reduces the likelihood of hospitalization due to RSV in high-risk infants and children.
- In the event of infection, Synagis can reduce the severity of symptoms and complications of RSV, especially respiratory distress.
- Its use is focused on infants and children who are at the highest risk of severe RSV infection, including premature infants and those with underlying medical conditions like CHD or BPD.
Direction of Use
- Synagis is administered as an intramuscular (IM) injection. It is typically given once a month during the RSV season (usually from fall through spring) for 5 months.
- The usual recommended dose for infants is 15 mg/kg body weight, injected once a month. The exact dose may vary depending on the child's weight, and the treatment regimen should be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- Regular follow-up visits are required to monitor the child’s progress and for any adverse reactions after each injection.
Safety Concerns
- Like all monoclonal antibodies, Synagis can cause allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, or trouble breathing. These reactions may occur immediately after administration.
- Since Synagis works by targeting RSV, it does not provide protection against other infections, and additional precautions may be necessary.
- Discomfort, redness, or swelling may develop at the injection site.
- Careful monitoring is necessary for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to other monoclonal antibodies or similar medications.
- Synagis is not a treatment for RSV infection. It is only used for prevention.
Avoid Synagis (Palivizumab) If
- If the patient has a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to palivizumab or any of the ingredients in Synagis, the medication should not be used.
- If the child has experienced a severe allergic reaction to Synagis or any related monoclonal antibodies, the medication should be avoided.
- Synagis is not intended to treat an active RSV infection. It is not suitable if the child is already infected with RSV.
This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.
