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Beyfortus vs. Synagis

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.

• 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

• Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

• Severe allergic reaction
• Caution use in children with bleeding problems

Synagis (palivizumab) is a monoclonal antibody. It's given to prevent serious respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in infants and young children who are at high risk for severe illness. Synagis (palivizumab) is injected into the muscle monthly, starting right before and continuing throughout the RSV season. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include fever and rash.

Prevention of serious respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections for:

• Babies born premature and are 6 months or younger at the start of RSV season
• Children diagnosed with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) within the last 6 months, and are 2 years or younger at the start of RSV season
• Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) and are 2 years or younger at the start of RSV season

• Fever (27%)
• Rash (12%)

• Severe allergic reaction
• Bleeding problems
• Not for treatment for RSV