Beyfortus (Nirsevimab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Beyfortus Used For?
Beyfortus is a medication designed to protect infants from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during their first RSV season and can also be given to at-risk children under 2 years during their second RSV season.
Primary Uses
Protects infants from RSV disease, which can lead to severe respiratory illness.
How It Works
Nirsevimab blocks the protein that RSV requires to infect cells, preventing the virus from entering and causing illness.
Good to know: Beyfortus is not addictive.
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How to Take Beyfortus
Beyfortus is administered via injection by a healthcare professional, typically in the outer thigh muscle.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended dosage is 50 mg for infants under 5 kg, 100 mg for those 5 kg or more during their first RSV season, and 200 mg (two 100 mg injections) for at-risk children in their second RSV season.
What If You Miss a Dose?
Beyfortus should be given before the RSV season or as soon as possible after birth if the child is born during the RSV season.
Important: Never double the dose if a dose is missed; consult your healthcare provider.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Redness at the injection site
- Swelling at the injection site
- Pain at the injection site
- Rash
- Fever
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe itching of the skin with a red rash or raised bumps
- Bluing of skin, lips, or fingers
- Loss of muscle tone or floppy appearance
Important Warnings
There are specific warnings regarding who should not take Beyfortus and conditions to discuss with a healthcare provider.
Who Should Not Take Beyfortus
Children with a known allergy to nirsevimab or any of its ingredients should not receive this medication.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any bleeding disorders, low platelet counts, or chronic conditions that may affect protein levels in the urine or gut.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with Beyfortus, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications your child is taking.
Alcohol & Driving
There are no specific warnings regarding alcohol consumption or driving while using Beyfortus.
Storage
Store Beyfortus according to the instructions provided with the medication, keeping it out of reach of young children.
Overdose Information
As Beyfortus is administered by a healthcare professional, the risk of overdose is low. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beyfortus is designed to provide protection during the RSV season, with effects observed shortly after administration.
Beyfortus is given as an injection, so food intake does not affect its administration.
No, Beyfortus is not considered addictive.
Beyfortus is administered as a preventive measure, and discontinuation should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
There are no specific warnings regarding alcohol consumption while using Beyfortus.
Weight gain is not listed as a side effect of Beyfortus.
Consult your healthcare provider regarding the safety of Beyfortus for elderly patients, especially those with pre-existing conditions.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.