Abstract
Palivizumab is a humanized, monoclonal antibody used to protect at-risk infants against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. The regular dosage scheme causes a low initial trough level and accumulation of the antibody after subsequent injections. Using a simple pharmacokinetic model, the authors devised an alternative dosage regimen that might correct these problems while cutting costs by 35%. To spare health care budgets, dosage schemes for future monoclonal antibodies must be chosen carefully.
MeSH terms
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / administration & dosage*
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / blood
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / economics
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
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Antiviral Agents / administration & dosage*
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Antiviral Agents / blood
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Antiviral Agents / economics
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Humans
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Immunization Schedule
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Infant, Newborn
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Infant, Premature
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Models, Theoretical*
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Netherlands
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Palivizumab
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections / drug therapy*
Substances
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Antibodies, Monoclonal
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
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Antiviral Agents
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Palivizumab