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palivizumab - injection, Synagis

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GENERIC NAME: PALIVIZUMAB - INJECTION (pal-ih-VYE-zyou-mab)

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.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.