Generic name: respiratory syncytial virus vaccine, adjuvanted (rsv vaccine pref3, recombinant systemic)
Drug class: Viral vaccines
Dosage form: suspension for intramuscular injection
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Respiratory syncytial virus (rsv) vaccine
What is Arexvy?
Arexvy is a vaccination against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that may be used to protect adults aged 60 years and older against lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) caused by RSV.
RSV is a common, contagious virus that can cause hospitalization and death, especially in older adults with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and chronic heart and lung diseases. The vaccine showed 94.6% efficacy in reducing the risk of developing RSV-associated LRTD in older adults with underlying conditions, with an overall efficacy of 82.6%.
Arexvy works by inducing an immune response against the RSVpreF3 antigen, the main protein found on the surface of RSV.
Arexvy was approved on May 3, 2023, and it was the first RSV vaccine to be approved for older adults.
Warnings
Anaphylaxis
Possible anaphylactic reactions may occur. Do not administer Arexvy to anyone with a known history of a severe allergic reaction to it or any of its components. Always administer in a facility that can provide the appropriate medical treatment and supervision to manage possible anaphylactic reactions following administration.
Syncope (fainting)
Fainting may occur following the administration of vaccines. Procedures should be in place to avoid injury from fainting.
Immunosuppression
People who are immunocompromised, including those receiving immunosuppressive therapy, may have a diminished immune response to Arexvy.
Other adults, pregnancy, or lactation
Arexvy is not approved for use in persons <60 years of age. It is not approved for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Children
Arexvy is not approved for use in children.
How should I use Arexvy
Arexvy is given by intramuscular injection, usually into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm.
The dose is 0.5mL.
Before Taking
Do not administer Arexvy to anyone with a known hypersensitivity to Arexvy or any of its components.
Arexvy side effects
Arexvy is generally well tolerated and the most common side effects include:
- Injection site pain (61%)
- Fatigue (tiredness) (34%)
- Muscle aches (29%)
- Headache (27%)
- Joint pain (18%).
Side effects are generally temporary and do not last long.
See more: Arexvy Side Effects