Respiratory Syncytial Virus

This month's Rx product news features empagliflozin, mitapivat, and RSVpreF.

The Labcorp Seasonal Respiratory Virus RT-PCR DTC Test is the first direct-to-consumer multi-analyte COVID-19 test to be authorized by FDA.

RSVpreF gets breakthrough designation for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus in individuals 60 years of age or older.

The decision is informed by the results of a phase 2b proof-of-concept study that assessed the immunogenicity and safety of the drug in healthy pregnant women and their infants.

RSV causes an estimated 14,000 deaths and 177,000 hospitalizations annually among US adults over 65 years of age.

The study aimed to examine the impact of masking and social distancing practices used to control the spread of COVID-19.

Samples for the test are isolated from nasopharyngeal swabs, anterior nasal swabs, and mid-turbinate swabs.

RSV is defined as a seasonal illness that starts in the fall months and peaks during the winter when other respiratory illnesses are more common.

Testing for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection during the influenza season is uncommon among pregnant mothers.