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Uses

What is Arexvy used for?

Arexvy (respiratory syncytial virus vaccine, adjuvanted) is commonly given to help prevent lower respiratory tract disease (such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis) caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a common, contagious virus that causes symptoms like cough and runny nose. In most people, RSV is mild. However, in babies, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions, RSV can cause serious problems that require you to go to the hospital. This vaccine will not give you RSV. It also will not treat an infection.

Learn more about Arexvy for Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prevention.

How does Arexvy work (mechanism of action)?

Arexvy triggers your immune response to make a type of protein (antibodies) against the respiratory syncytial virus. If you have antibodies against this virus, your body is better able to fight the virus, which may help prevent you from getting lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV.

How should I store Arexvy?

Arexvy is usually given by a healthcare provider in a pharmacy, hospital, or clinic. You will not store it at home.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Arexvy?

The most common side effects of Arexvy are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Pain, swelling, or redness near the injection site
  • Tiredness
  • Muscle pain
  • Joint pain
  • Headache

There may be other side effects of Arexvy that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Arexvy?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Arexvy are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Arexvy may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Get emergency medical help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Arexvy?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use Arexvy.

  • Respiratory syncytial virus vaccine
  • Arexvy
  • Any of the ingredients in Arexvy

Your healthcare provider can tell you all of the ingredients in Arexvy.

What should I know about Arexvy before using it?

Arexvy is usually given by a healthcare provider in a pharmacy, hospital, or clinic.

A vaccine information statement should be provided to you by your healthcare provider before your vaccination. This document provides information regarding the benefits and risks of the vaccine.

If you need other vaccines, such as the flu or pneumonia vaccine, you can get them on the same day as Arexvy. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

Your risk of dizziness or fainting, which may lead to a fall, is the highest within a few minutes after receiving Arexvy. Your healthcare provider may want to watch you for this time to ensure your safety.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using Arexvy?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if Arexvy is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following.

  • A history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
  • Fever or recent illness
  • A weak immune system, get infections easily, or take medicines or treatments that suppress the immune system such as radiation or chemotherapy
  • A history of any type of reaction after any vaccine
  • A history of fainting after an injection

Pregnancy. People who can become pregnant are not usually given Arexvy. It is not known if or how Arexvy could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant.  

Breastfeeding. People who can breastfeed are not usually given Arexvy. It is not known if Arexvy passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should receive Arexvy while breastfeeding.

How can I get more information about Arexvy?

For more information about Arexvy, you can visit the manufacturer’s website at www.arexvy.com or call them at 888-825-5249.

Interactions

Does Arexvy interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between Arexvy and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Arexvy.

Does Arexvy interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between Arexvy and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Arexvy?

Arexvy is given by a healthcare provider. Keep a record of all vaccines you receive and share it with your healthcare provider. If you have any side effects, please report them by calling 800-822-7967 or filling out an online form at https://vaers.hhs.gov.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Arexvy?

Arexvy is given as one dose. If you are scheduled to get an Arexvy vaccine, and you miss your appointment, call to make another appointment as soon as possible.