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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine

Generic name: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine
Brand name: Arexvy
Dosage form: intramuscular powder for injection (preservative-free 120 mcg)
Drug class: Viral vaccines

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 8, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is respiratory syncytial virus vaccine?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory disease. The virus is highly contagious and usually affects the lungs and airways. For most people, infections can feel like a common cold, but for some, the virus is potentially life-threatening.

Respiratory syncytial virus vaccine is used to prevent lung disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus in adults at least 60 years old.

Like any vaccine, the respiratory syncytial virus vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.

This vaccine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.

Rsv vaccine pref3, recombinant side effects (more detail)

Warnings

Becoming infected with respiratory syncytial virus is much more dangerous to your health than receiving this vaccine.

You should not receive another dose of this vaccine if you had a life threatening allergic reaction after the first shot.

Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not receive this vaccine if you have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any component of this vaccine.

Tell your doctor or vaccination provider if you have a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).

How is this vaccine given?

This vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Fainting may occur. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Respiratory Syncytial Virus:

Recommended dose: 0.5 mL intramuscularly as a single dose.

Use(s): For active immunization for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) caused by respiratory syncytial virus in individuals 60 years of age and older.

Detailed Rsv vaccine pref3, recombinant dosage information

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since this vaccine is given as a one time injection, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this vaccine is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid while receiving this vaccine?

Follow your vaccination provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect respiratory syncytial virus vaccine?

Before receiving this vaccine, tell your vaccination provider about all other vaccines you have recently received.

Other drugs may affect this vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Rsv vaccine pref3, recombinant drug interactions (more detail)

Popular FAQ

Arexvy and Abrysvo are both RSV vaccines that are approved for use in adults over the age of 60 to reduce their risk of developing lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD). Abrysvo is also approved for use in pregnant women between 32 through 36 weeks gestation, to protect infants against LRTD from the moment they are born until they are 6 months of age. Arexvy is made by GSK and was approved on May 3, 2023; the first RSV vaccine to be approved for older adults. Abrysvo is made by Pfizer and was approved on May 31, 2023; the second RSV vaccine to be approved for older adults. Continue reading

RSV symptoms are runny nose, sore throat, stuffy nose, cough
wheezing, headache, and fever for adults and RSV symptoms in the young include decreased activity, irritability, and breathing difficulties. Continue reading

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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