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Beyfortus
Used for RSV
Used for RSV
Beyfortus (nirsevimab or nirsevimab-alip) is an injection given to babies and children up to 24 months old. It's used to prevent them from getting very sick from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It's not an RSV vaccine. Instead, it's a monoclonal antibody that gives protection against the virus for a short time. Beyfortus (nirsevimab) is now part of the CDC Child Immunization Schedule. The usual dosage is 1 to 2 injections into the muscle during or at the start of the RSV season. It's well-tolerated with only a few side effects.
What is Beyfortus (nirsevimab)?
What is Beyfortus (nirsevimab) used for?
- Prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in young children of certain ages
- Newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season
- Children up to 24 months old at risk of severe RSV illness through their second RSV season
How Beyfortus (nirsevimab) works
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) is a type of monoclonal antibody. It attaches to a specific protein found on RSV (called the prefusion F protein).
By attaching to this protein, it prevents RSV from getting into cells and spreading in the body. This helps protect against RSV and lower the risk of serious illness if you do get sick from it.
When does Beyfortus (nirsevimab) start working?Time passed since treatment started:
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Beyfortus |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Monoclonal antibody |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
More on Beyfortus (nirsevimab) essentials
Side effects of Beyfortus (nirsevimab)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.
Less Common Side Effects
- Rash
- Injection site reaction (e.g., pain, hard lump, swelling)
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Severe allergic reaction: rash, trouble breathing, swelling in the face or throat
When do Beyfortus (nirsevimab) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
H
D
W
M
Rash
Injection site reaction
The following Beyfortus (nirsevimab) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
- Skin rash
Pros and cons of Beyfortus (nirsevimab)
Pros
- Given during one medical visit
- Can lower the risk of severe RSV-related illness by about 70% in full-term and premature babies
- Not many side effects
Cons
- Injection can be uncomfortable
- Protection might only last for about 5 months
- Not known if it's safe or if it works well for children older than 24 months
Pharmacist tips for Beyfortus (nirsevimab)
- Your child should get Beyfortus (nirsevimab) at the start of or during the RSV season. It's usually between late fall and early spring. Ask your child's pediatrician about when RSV season begins in your area. This can help you plan out when your child should get the injection.
- Your child could get a rash after getting Beyfortus (nirsevimab). There could also be pain and swelling where the injection was given. These side effects usually happen within 1 to 2 weeks of the injection. But they should go away in a few days. Talk to a healthcare professional about ways to help relieve these side effects.
- If your child got Beyfortus (nirsevimab) for their first RSV season, ask the pediatrician if they should get it again for the next season. This usually depends on if your child is still at high risk of getting very sick from RSV.
- Even though Beyfortus (nirsevimab) can lower your child's risk of RSV, they could still get infected and get sick. Watch out for symptoms of RSV. They include a stuffy or runny nose, cough, sore throat, and a low-grade fever.
- If your child has heart surgery, talk to the pediatrician. Your child might need an extra dose of Beyfortus (nirsevimab) afterwards. Heart surgery might affect the levels of the antibody medication in the body. So an extra dose helps make sure your child is still protected enough from RSV.
More on Beyfortus (nirsevimab) tips
Risks and warnings for Beyfortus (nirsevimab)
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Severe allergic reaction
Some children have had serious allergic reactions after getting Beyfortus (nirsevimab). These reactions can include hives, trouble breathing, or weak muscles. Anaphylaxis has also happened with other monoclonal antibody medications. This can be life-threatening.
If your child has trouble breathing, a severe rash, or swelling in their face, get medical help right away.
Caution use in children with bleeding problems
- Risk factors: History of bleeding problems | History of low platelets | Taking blood-thinning medication
Tell your child's healthcare professional about if they have a history of bleeding problems, like low platelets. Also make sure to give them a list of your child's current medications. They can check if your child is taking any blood-thinning medications.
If this is the case, your child might still be able to receive Beyfortus (nirsevimab). But their healthcare team will want to keep an eye on them for any bleeding after the injection.
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) dosage
Typical dosage for Beyfortus (nirsevimab)
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) is injected into the front side of the thigh muscle. It's injected by a trained healthcare professional.
-
Newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season
- Weigh less than 5 kg (11 lbs): The typical dose is 50 mg given as one injection.
- Weigh 5 kg (11 lbs) or more: The typical dose is 100 mg given as one injection.
-
Children up to 24 months old at risk of severe RSV illness in their second RSV season
- The typical dose is 200 mg, given as two 100 mg injections during one office visit.
Note: Children who need heart surgery might need an extra dose of Beyfortus (nirsevimab) afterwards.
What are alternatives to Beyfortus (nirsevimab)?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Beyfortus (nirsevimab). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
News about Beyfortus (nirsevimab)
RSV Prevention in Children: Your GoodRx Guide to Abrysvo vs. Beyfortus
Compare the differences between Abrysvo, an RSV vaccine for adults, and Beyfortus, a preventative antibody injection for children. Read on to learn more.
Beyfortus vs. Synagis for RSV Prevention in Children: 6 Differences Parents Should Know
Beyfortus and Synagis are two injections that can prevent RSV in children. They are not vaccines. Here are the main differences in eligibility, availability, and more.
RSV Prevention in Babies: Who’s Eligible for Beyfortus and How to Access It
Beyfortus is one of a few methods that help prevent RSV in children. Learn more about how to prevent RSV in babies with this guide.
How Does Beyfortus Work? Plus, 6 Other Beyfortus FAQs Answered
Beyfortus is a preventive RSV medication that works by providing antibodies. Learn when to get Beyfortus, how long it takes to work, and more.
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) images
