Arexvy Dosage in Canada
The recommended dosage for Arexvy in Canada is a single 0.5 mL intramuscular injection for adults aged 60 years and older, particularly those 75 years and older or those residing in nursing homes and chronic care facilities. 1
Approved Population and Recommendations
- Arexvy is authorized in Canada for adults 50 years of age and older, but the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) specifically recommends immunization programs for adults 75 years and older, particularly those with chronic health conditions who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease 1
- NACI also recommends RSV immunization programs for adults 60 years and older who are residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities 1
- For adults aged 50-74 years, receiving Arexvy may be considered as an individual decision in consultation with their healthcare provider 1
Efficacy and Protection
- Arexvy offers approximately 83% protection in adults against lower respiratory tract illness caused by RSV 2
- The vaccine appears to maintain effectiveness for up to two RSV seasons, though the complete duration of protection is not yet fully established 2
- All three available RSV vaccines (including Arexvy) may provide similar reductions in hospitalizations associated with RSV and medically attended RSV respiratory tract infections for adults 60 years and older 1
Safety Profile and Side Effects
- Arexvy was generally well-tolerated in clinical trials, with an acceptable safety profile among older adults 1
- The most frequently observed adverse events are mild to moderate in nature, including: 2
- Injection site pain
- Fatigue
- Myalgia
- Headache
- Arthralgia
Clinical Considerations
- Arexvy contains recombinant respiratory syncytial virus glycoprotein F stabilized in the prefusion conformation 2
- It is the first approved vaccine to prevent lower respiratory tract illness caused by RSV in older adults 2
- The need for booster doses is currently unclear, as it is not yet known if protection offered by vaccination can be boosted by subsequent doses 1
Important Caveats
- RSV disproportionately affects older adults, particularly those of advanced age and those with chronic medical conditions 1
- When considering vaccination, healthcare providers should prioritize those at highest risk of severe RSV disease outcomes 1
- Prescription monitoring/review programs in Canada are managed at the provincial level, so access and coverage may vary by province 3