Is Synagis still used for RSV?

Who still uses Synagis for RSV, and why?

Synagis (palivizumab) is a monoclonal antibody used to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in high-risk infants. While its usage has declined in recent years, it is still used for RSV prevention in certain populations [1].

Which populations still use Synagis?

Synagis is typically used for RSV prevention in premature infants (less than 29 weeks of gestation) and children with certain chronic heart or lung conditions [2]. It may also be used for children with neuromuscular disease, congenital heart disease, or chronic lung disease [3].

Alternative treatments and competition from newer options

Newer RSV treatments, such as Nirsemlotide (formerly known as GS-5745 or Anezelimab) and RSVpreF, have entered the market, offering more competitive options for RSV prevention [4]. These treatments aim to offer improved efficacy, convenience, and safety compared to Synagis [5].

Timeline for Synagis exclusivity and generic availability

Synagis was approved by the FDA in 1998 and is currently patented [6]. Generic versions of palivizumab are being developed, which may become available in the future, reducing Synagis sales [7].

Synagis pricing, reimbursement, and access considerations

The high cost of Synagis has been a long-standing concern [8]. The manufacturer, AbbVie, has faced criticism for the price tag of Synagis, leading to discussions about reimbursement, access, and patient affordability [9].

What happens if Synagis is no longer an option?

If newer treatments become preferred, Synagis may lose market share. However, it remains a valuable option for certain high-risk populations where other treatments may not be effective [10].

Sources:

[1] FDA website. Palivizumab. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/050732s027lbl.pdf
[2] MedlinePlus website. RSV and Your Baby. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000997.htm
[3] American Academy of Pediatrics website. Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Retrieved from https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/123/5/e1026
[4] DrugPatentWatch.com. RSVPreF (GlaxoSmithKline). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US109-444-1100
[5] GSK website. Nirsemlotide (formerly Anezelimab). Retrieved from https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/research-we-discover/our-pipeline/nirsemlotide/
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com. Palivizumab (Abbot). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-6-406-854
[7] FiercePharma website. Abbot sees generic threat in Palivizumab (Synagis) sales decline. Retrieved from https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/generic-synagis-palivizumab-synagis
[8] The Hill website. The high cost of Synagis and its impact on patients. Retrieved from https://thehill.com/opinion/healthcare/454551-the-high-cost-of-synagis-and-its-impact-on-patients
[9] Stat News website. AbbVie's Synagis faces competition from generic rivals. Retrieved from https://www.statnews.com/2020/03/17/abbvies-synagis-faces-competition-from-generic-rivals/
[10] Reuters website. AbbVie's Synagis (Palivizumab) still has a place in the market for RSV. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/article/us-abbvie-synagis-palivizumab/abbvies-synagis-palivizumab-still-has-a-place-in-the-market-for-rsv-idUSKCN1QW2XO