Key takeaways
Arexvy (RSV vaccine) and Abrysvo (RSV vaccine) are both vaccines used to prevent serious lung infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). They are similar in that they are both recombinant protein vaccines and are FDA-approved for adults 60 years and older, as well as adults 18 to 59 years old who are at higher risk for severe RSV illness. However, Abrysvo is also approved for pregnant mothers between 32 to 36 weeks gestation to help protect their newborns from RSV after birth, which is not the case for Arexvy. Both vaccines are given as a single injection into the muscle, but they have different side effect profiles. Arexvy commonly causes injection site pain, muscle pain, and tiredness, while Abrysvo often leads to tiredness, headache, and nausea. Both vaccines carry a rare risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome and severe allergic reactions. Additionally, Abrysvo has a potential risk of preterm birth when given during pregnancy. Neither vaccine is an mRNA vaccine, and both can be administered alongside other vaccines.
