How Do RSV Agents Work?
How Do RSV Agents Work?
RSV agents are drugs mainly used to treat respiratory syncytial virus infections, which is the leading cause of viral respiratory tract infections in children. There are currently two drugs approved for RSV disease: palivizumab and ribavirin.
Palivizumab binds with the protein present in the virus, forming a shield. As a result, they fail to infect human cells. On the other hand, ribavirin, an antiviral agent, prevents the multiplication of the virus.
What Are Uses of RSV Agents?
Palivizumab (injection) can help protect certain infants and children 2 years of age and younger who are at an increased risk of serious complications from RSV.
Ribavirin is used in combination with other antiviral medications (such as interferon, sofosbuvir) to treat chronic hepatitis C (viral infection of the liver).
What Are Side Effects of RSV Agents?
The side effects vary depending on the drug. Some of the side effects of palivizumab include:
- Fever
- Rash
- Pain
- Hernia
- Cough
- Pneumonia
- Anemia
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Eczema (A disease that makes your skin red, itchy, and scaly or crusty)
- Pneumonia
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
- Sinusitis (inflammation of sinuses)
- Apnea (cessation of breathing)
Other side effects of ribavirin include:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea
- Muscle pain
- Fever
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Rash
- Alopecia (hair loss)
- Irritability
- Dizziness
- Itching
- Weakness
- Chest pain
- Nervousness
- Anorexia
- Joint pain
- Nasal congestion
- Impaired concentration
The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.