Beyfortus™ Recommended to Prevent RSV in Newborns and Infants
November 2nd, 2023 | Pharmacy•NewsIn July, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Beyfortus™ (nirsevimab) for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease in newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season, and for children up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. Beyfortus™ is a long-acting monoclonal antibody administered as a single intramuscular injection prior to or during the RSV season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices unanimously recommended Beyfortus™ for infants less than 8 months of age born during or entering their first RSV season, and for children ages 8 to 19 months who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease and entering their second RSV season.
Regionally, efforts are being made to administer nirsevimab at birthing hospitals before discharge. This approach would be particularly beneficial due to the significant number of births in Monroe County, approximately 7,500 per year. Regional birthing hospitals are working together with pharmacy and infectious disease teams and primary care practices to plan the vaccine administration.
For Excellus Members: Beyfortus™ will not require prior authorization. Synagis® (palivizumab) will continue to require prior authorization. Once Beyfortus is available for the 2023-2024 RSV season, all Synagis requests for RSV prophylaxis will be required to use Beyfortus™, unless there is a medical reason Beyfortus cannot be used. Synagis will not be approved in the same RSV season for any patients who have already received Beyfortus.
For MVP Members: Beyfortus™ will require prior authorization for at least the first six months following the date it is first available on the market for the 2023-2024 RSV season.
