Palivizumab injection
Palivizumab injection
What is this medicine?
PALIVIZUMAB (pal i VI zu mab) is an antibody. It is used in infants and children to prevent severe cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Children treated with this medicine may still get RSV but will not get as sick as if they were not treated at all. This medicine does not protect against other infections.
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for injection into a muscle. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
This drug may be prescribed for children as young as premature newborns. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
blue color to lips, skin
breathing problems
loss of appetite
ear pain
fast, irregular heart beat
fever
less active
less alert
very irritable
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
cough
pain at site where injected
runny nose
What may interact with this medicine?
Interactions are not expected.
What if I miss a dose?
It is important not to miss a dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if your child has any of these conditions:
blood or bleeding disorders
immune system problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to palivizumab, vaccines or antibodies, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
See your health care provider for monthly injections of this medicine as directed.
Updated:
July 17, 2018