Palivizumab
Mechanism :
Palivizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody produced by recombinant DNA technology, directed to an epitope in the A antigenic site of the F protein of respiratory syncytial virus.
Indication :
- Respiratory syncytial virus infections in children born at less than 36-week gestation and less than 6 months age at beginning of RSV season
- Bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Contraindications :
Should not be used in pediatric patients with a history of a severe prior reaction to palivizumab or other components of this product. Care should be taken in patients with thrombocytopenia or any coagulation disorders.
Dosing :
15 mg/kg IM once monthly during RSV season, starting just prior to the beginning of the RSV season, for no more than 5 doses.
Adverse Effect :
Antibody formation, anaphylaxis and acute hypersensitivity reactions, cough, wheezing, diarrhea, vomiting, gastroenteritis, rash.
Interaction :
No formal drug-drug interaction studies were conducted.
Hepatic Dose :
No dose adjustment recommended.