What are Monoclonal Antibodies?
Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made molecules that copy the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses.
There are currently two monoclonal antibody treatments that are specifically directed against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, designed to block the virus’ attachment and entry into human cells. The medications are bamlanivimab from Eli Lilly and a combination of casirivimab/imdevimab from Regeneron.
What are the criteria to receive Monoclonal Antibody Treatment?
It is important to understand that monoclonal antibody infusion therapy is only available to patients who meet FDA-approved criteria for use.
Please note: You must have a physician’s order and the physician must fill out the hospitals’ Criteria for Use to be able to schedule an appointment for Monoclonal Antibody treatment.
Due to limited availability Wise Health System requires that all of the below criteria must be met:
1. Have a positive COVID-19 test
2. Is NOT sick enough to require hospitalization
3. Is NOT sick enough to require an increase in baseline oxygen therapy or additional oxygen supplementation
4. Is within 10 days of symptom onset the day treatment would begin
5. Must also fall into 1 of the 2 categories below
- a. 65 years and older or
- b. 55 years of age AND have a high-risk condition
- 1. Cardiovascular Disease
- 2. Hypertension
- 3. COPD or other respiratory disease
- 4. Chronic Kidney Disease
- 5. Diabetes
- 6. Immunosuppressive disease
- 7. BMI greater than or equal to 35
Who should not receive the Monoclonal Antibody Treatment?
1. Someone being admitted to the hospital
2. Anyone under the age of 55
3. Anyone under the age of 65 who does not have at least one of the listed high-risk conditions
4. Anyone who has a hypersensitivy to any ingredient of the monoclonal antibody treatment
What should I expect on infusion day?
The entire infusion process takes approximately 3-4 hours from the time of arrival until the time of discharge.
If I’ve had Monoclonal Antibody Treatment, should I get the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Patients who receive Monoclonal Antibody Treatment should wait at least 90 days before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.