What is Arexvy? Uses, warnings & side effects
Arexvy is an intramuscular vaccine that provides prophylaxis against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection of the lower respiratory tract. This vaccine is targeted for older adults who are at the highest risk of contracting RSV, such as those living in a long-term care facility, those with lung or cardiovascular disease, and those who are immunocompromised. Arexvy was approved for use in May 2023 and is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Initial clinical data shows a 95% efficacy rate of preventing RSV-associated lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in older adults.
Arexvy overview
BRAND NAMES:
Arexvy
Generic Names:
Respiratory syncytial virus vaccine, preF3, recombinant
Uses:
Prevention of severe RSV symptoms in adults aged 60 years and over and reduced risk of hospitalization or death from RSV
Therapeutic Classes:
Vaccine (recombinant adjuvant)
Forms:
Intramuscular injection after reconstitution
How it’s taken:
After reconstitution, inject 0.5 ml of the resulting liquid preparation intramuscularly into the deltoid muscle (upper arm)
What is Arexvy used for?
Arexvy is indicated for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in the lower respiratory tract. Arexvy is approved for adults ages 60 and over only. It is not appropriate for children or adults under the age of 60.
Key takeaways
Do not get an Arexvy vaccination if you are under 60 years old, as safety and efficacy have not been established.
RSV is a common and contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory illness, hospitalizations, and even death. Arexvy is proven to lessen the likelihood of hospitalization or death in the older, more vulnerable population.
Abrysvo is another marketed RSV vaccine, but it is unique in that it is indicated in a first-time pregnant mother between 32 to 36 weeks gestation. Abrysvo can also be given in older adults like Abrexvy, but Abrexvy can not be given in pregnant patients.
What form(s) does Arexvy come in?
Arexvy Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine, Adjuvanted suspension for intramuscular injection
120 mcg of the recombinant RSVPreF3 antigen, 25 mcg of MPL, and 25 mcg of QS-21
What are common Arexvy dosages?
0.5 ml of reconstituted Arexvy solution intramuscularly in the upper arm (deltoid)
Arexvy images - What does Arexvy look like?
Arexvy
120mcg/0.5ml suspension reconstituted
How to take Arexvy
Reconstitute by withdrawing the preservative-free diluent from vial 1 of 2 and injecting it into the vial of powder (vial 2 of 2). Gently swirl until a particle-free solution is formed (it will be brown in color). Withdraw 0.5 ml of the resulting solution and inject into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm.
Arexvy is a one-time vaccine administered to adults aged 60 years and older. You should not repeat the Arexvy vaccination once administered.
What to do if you miss a dose of Arexvy
Arexvy is a one-time vaccination dose. It should be given to qualified adults at least 60 years of age at the earliest convenience. If you have received a dose of Abrysvo after reaching the age of 60, you do not need a dose of Arexvy.
Arexvy contraindications - Who shouldn't take Arexvy?
You should not receive an Arexvy dose if you are allergic to any of its components
Arexvy is not approved to be used by anyone under the age of 60
Arexvy should not be administered to pregnant women
Arexvy warnings
Injectable vaccines are associated with episodes of syncope and fainting. It is best to be sitting and take measures against the patient falling.
Immunocomprbyised patients should be vaccinated against RSV, but their response to the vaccine could be inadequate.
Please double-check the vaccine formula you are administering, as Abrexy and Abrysvo have different patient population approvals.
If Abrexy is given to a pregnant patient, there is an increased risk of preterm birth.
Arexvy interactions & what to avoid when taking Arexvy
Corticosteroids
Hydrocortisone
Prednisone
Budesonide
Methylprednisolone
Prednisolone
Triamcinolone
Immunosuppressant Drugs
Bimekizumab
Deucravacitinib
Ocrelizumab
Ofatumumab
Satralizumab
Arexvy side effects - How does Arexvy make you feel?
The Arexvy vaccine was studied in two large clinical trials, and the side effects are mostly mild and limited in occurrence. If you have an allergic reaction characterized by trouble breathing or swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, please seek medical attention immediately. One incidence of Guillain-Barre syndrome was reported 9 days after Arexvy administration.
The most common side effects of the Arexvy vaccine are:
Injection site pain and redness
Fatigue
Muscle pain
Headache
Joint pain
Sources:
AREXVY Prescribing Information, GlaxoSmithKline (2023)
Arexvy (RSV Vaccine): Usage, Side Effects, Warnings, Drugs.com (2024)
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