IM (Children ): 15 mg/kg/month during RSV season (first dose should be administered prior to the RSV season; RSV season is November through April in most northern hemisphere countries). AAP recommends a maximum of 3 doses for patients born at a gestational age of 32–34 wk without congenital heart or chronic lung disease and a maximum of 5 doses for all others.
Availability⬆⬇
Solution for injection: 50 mg/0.5 mL vial; 100 mg/1 mL vial
Assessment⬆⬇
Assess patient for signs of lower respiratory tract disease periodically during therapy.
Assess patient for signs of anaphylactic reaction (rash, pruritus, laryngeal edema, wheezing) after injection. Epinephrine, antihistamine, and equipment for resuscitation should be readily available.
Lab Test Considerations:
May cause thrombocytopenia. Monitor platelet count periodically during therapy.
Implementation⬆⬇
First dose should be administered before RSV season, then monthly thereafter during RSV season.
IM: Contains no preservatives; administer within 6 hr.
Administer IM injection into the lateral aspect of the thigh. Avoid gluteal muscle to prevent damage to the sciatic nerve.
Give injections >1 mL as a divided dose.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Explain to parents/caregivers importance of monthly palivizumab to prevent RSV infection. Injection is administered even if infection is present. Advise parents to read the Information for Patients and Their Caregivers prior to first dose and with each Rx refill; information may have changed.
Instruct parent to notify health care professional immediately if signs of anaphylactic reaction (severe rash, hives, or itching skin; difficulty breathing; closing of throat; difficulty swallowing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; bluish color of skin, lips, or under fingernails; muscle weakness or floppiness; unresponsiveness) or if unusual bleeding or bruising occurs.
Advise parents to consult health care professional before administering other Rx, OTC, or herbal products to their child.
Evaluation/Desired Outcomes⬆⬇
Prevention of the serious sequelae of RSV disease in susceptible children.
