CONTRAINDICATIONS
PEMGARDA is contraindicated in individuals with previous severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, to any component of PEMGARDA.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Hypersensitivity Including Anaphylaxis and Infusion-Related Reactions
Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been observed with PEMGARDA. If signs and symptoms of a clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction or anaphylaxis occur, immediately discontinue administration, and initiate appropriate medications and/or supportive therapy. Clinically monitor individuals during the 60-minute infusion and for at least two hours after completion of the infusion.
Risk of Cross-Hypersensitivity With COVID-19 Vaccines
PEMGARDA contains polysorbate 80, which is in some COVID-19 vaccines and is structurally similar to polyethylene glycol (PEG), an ingredient in other COVID-19 vaccines. For individuals with a history of severe hypersensitivity reaction to a COVID-19 vaccine, consider consultation with an allergist-immunologist prior to PEMGARDA administration.
Risk for COVID-19 Due to SARS-CoV-2 Viral Variants Not Neutralized by PEMGARDA
Certain SARS-CoV-2 viral variants may emerge that are not neutralized by monoclonal antibodies such as PEMGARDA. PEMGARDA may not be effective at preventing COVID-19 caused by these SARS-CoV-2 viral variants. Inform individuals of the increased risk, compared to other variants, for COVID-19 due to emergent SARS-CoV-2 viral variants not neutralized by PEMGARDA. If signs or symptoms of COVID-19 occur, advise individuals to test for COVID-19 and seek medical attention, including starting treatment for COVID-19 as appropriate.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
The most common adverse events (all grades, incidence ≥2%) observed in participants who have moderate-to-severe immune compromise treated with PEMGARDA included systemic and local infusion-related or hypersensitivity reactions, upper respiratory tract infection, viral infection, influenza-like illness, fatigue, headache, and nausea.
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Pregnancy
There are insufficient data to evaluate a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. PEMGARDA should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk for the mother and the fetus.
Lactation
There are no available data on the presence of PEMGARDA in human or animal milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Maternal IgG is known to be present in human milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for PEMGARDA and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from PEMGARDA.