How Do RSV Agents Work?

RSV agents are drugs mainly used to treat respiratory syncytial virus infections, which are the leading cause of viral respiratory tract infections in children. There are currently two drugs approved for RSV disease: palivizumab and ribavirin.

• Palivizumab (SYNAGIS) binds with the protein present in the virus, forming a shield. As a result, they fail to infect human cells.  SYNAGIS gives babies who are born prematurely (at or before 35 weeks, and who are 6 months of age or less at the beginning of RSV season) the virus-blocking antibodies they lack, helping protect their vulnerable lungs from RSV.
• On the other hand, ribavirin, an antiviral agent, prevents the multiplication of virus infections, including hepatitis C, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Lassa fever. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of viral RNA and DNA, which is necessary for the virus to replicate and survive.  Note: ribavirin is not effective against all types of viruses, and it is often used in combination with other drugs to increase its effectiveness.

• Palivizumab (SYNAGIS) (injection) can help protect certain infants and children 2 years of age and younger who are at an increased risk of serious complications from RSV.
• Ribavirin is typically given as an inhaled medication or by intravenous (IV) infusion to treat severe RSV infections, such as those that occur in people with compromised immune systems or severe respiratory illness. It is usually used in combination with other medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, to help manage symptoms and improve breathing. Ribavirin is used in combination with other antiviral medications (such as interferon and sofosbuvir) to treat chronic hepatitis C (viral infection of the liver).

The side effects vary depending on the drug. Some of the side effects of palivizumab include:

• Fever
• Rash
• Pain
• Hernia
• Cough
• Pneumonia
• Anemia
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Eczema (A disease that makes your skin red, itchy, and scaly or crusty)
• Pneumonia
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Sinusitis (inflammation of sinuses)
• Apnea (cessation of breathing)

Other side effects of ribavirin include:

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Muscle pain
• Fever
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Rash
• Alopecia (hair loss)
• Irritability
• Dizziness
• Itching
• Weakness
• Chest pain
• Nervousness
• Anorexia
• Joint pain
• Nasal congestion
• Impaired concentration

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Names of RSV Agents medications include:

• Copegus
• Moderiba
• Palivizumab
• Rebetol
• RibaPak
• Ribasphere
• Ribavirin
• Synagis
• Virazole
• References