From the Guidelines
There are no specific prescription medications approved to treat RSV symptoms in adults, and treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on managing symptoms rather than targeting the virus itself. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve pain 1. Decongestants and expectorants may help with nasal congestion and cough. For adults with underlying conditions like asthma or COPD who experience RSV-triggered exacerbations, prescription bronchodilators (such as albuterol) or corticosteroids might be prescribed to manage respiratory symptoms 1. In severe cases requiring hospitalization, supplemental oxygen therapy may be necessary. Antibiotics are not effective against RSV since it's a viral infection, but might be prescribed if a secondary bacterial infection develops.
Some key points to consider in the management of RSV in adults include:
- The use of RSV vaccines in adults aged ≥60 years, with proven efficacy, effectiveness, and safety, as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices 1.
- The importance of preventive measures, such as vaccination, in reducing the burden of RSV infection in older adults and those with chronic disorders 1.
- The need for individualized assessment and management of adults with RSV infection, taking into account underlying health conditions and risk factors for severe disease 1.
Overall, the management of RSV in adults should prioritize supportive care, preventive measures, and individualized assessment and management to minimize morbidity, mortality, and impact on quality of life. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2025, supports the use of RSV vaccines in adults aged ≥60 years, with a single dose of any FDA-approved RSV vaccine recommended for all adults aged ≥75 years and for adults aged 60-74 years who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease 1.
From the Research
Prescription Medications for RSV Symptoms in Adults
There are limited prescription medications available to treat symptoms of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in adults. The current treatment for RSV is primarily supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms and managing complications.
- The following medications have been used or are being developed to treat RSV:
- Ribavirin: an antiviral medication that has been licensed for RSV treatment, although its use is limited due to issues with efficacy, safety, and cost 2.
- Palivizumab: a monoclonal antibody that has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing RSV disease in high-risk pediatric populations, but its use in adults is not well established 2, 3.
- New antiviral treatments and monoclonal antibodies are being developed, but it may be several years before they become available 2, 3.
- Vaccines are also being developed to prevent RSV disease, with two protein subunit vaccines and one mRNA-based vaccine recently gaining market approval for use in adults aged 60 years and older 4.
Treatment Approaches
The treatment of RSV in adults typically involves supportive care, including:
- Hydration
- Oxygenation
- Management of underlying conditions, such as heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 4, 5.
- Monitoring for complications, such as respiratory failure and exacerbations of underlying diseases 6, 5.
Future Directions
Research is ongoing to develop new therapeutics and preventative options for RSV, including antiviral drugs, monoclonal antibodies, and vaccines 2, 3. These new treatments may become available in the coming years, providing more effective options for managing RSV in adults.