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As we know, antibodies are naturally produced by our body in response to an infection. However, a monoclonal antibody or mAB is designed in a laboratory to mimic or enhance your body’s natural immune system response against an infection. It has an advantage over other treatments as it specifically targets an essential part of the infectious process. Prior to COVID-19, it was used to treat viral infections like Ebola and rabies. Fortunately, several mABs have been developed that can block the corona virus from entering human cells.
COVID-19 patients receive an intravenous infusion of a MAB in an infusion center, emergency department, or other outpatient setting. Notably, it is among the most promising treatments for mild to moderate infection. Additionally, Monoclonal Antibody Infusion has to be given within seven days of the start of the symptoms. Moreover in 2020, FDA issued an emergency use authorization for mAB for the treatment of COVID-19. Clinical trials have shown that the treatment can reduce hospitalization rates as well as emergency department visits.
The antibodies provide treatment for the disease and even prevent development of disease after exposure. Despite this therapy, one needs to be vaccinated to avoid serious illness in the future. In case you are COVID positive and meet the requirements for the therapy, you can receive the infusion regardless of your vaccination status. Although researchers are still learning which patients are benefited from the treatment, early data suggests benefit in high risk individuals such as those above 65 years of age, with a weak immune system or certain medical conditions, pregnancy, and obesity.
Furthermore, the antibodies are intended for patients diagnosed with the disease who are not sick enough to be in the hospital but have some risk factors for the infection. Moreover, the mAB treatment is different from a COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccines trigger the body's natural immune response and can take weeks to develop antibodies against the virus. On the contrary, a mAB provides antibodies to the body to protect from the infection and thus helps you if you are at risk for developing a serious illness.
Thus, if you are tested positive for COVID, have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, or at risk for developing the condition, you should be referred for Monoclonal Antibody Therapy by your health-care professional. Depending on the treatment you receive, the entire process takes about 2 to 3 hours. Before delivering the mAB to your body, medical staff will conduct a screening. After the treatment, the team will have you stay at the infusion center to ensure there are no allergic reactions or side effects. Finally, you will be released to go home once the experts monitor you following the infusion process.