Therapy for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies
Monoclonal antibody treatments can prevent disease progression, hospitalization, and death in high-risk patients who have contracted or been exposed to COVID-19. These treatments are widely available in Florida.
- Treatment is free and your vaccination status does not matter. If you are 12 years of age or older and are at high risk for serious illness from COVID-19, you can receive this treatment.
- In clinical trials, monoclonal antibody treatment showed a 70% reduction in hospitalization and death.
- For high-risk patients who have been exposed to someone with COVID19, Regeneron can provide temporary immunity to lower your chances of becoming infected by more than 80%.
AstraZeneca’s Evusheld: Preventive Monoclonal Antibody Therapy
On December 8, 2021, the US Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization for AstraZeneca’s Evusheld for the prophylaxis (prevention) of COVID-19 in certain populations aged 12 years and older. of age or older.
EvuSheld by AstraZeneca is authorized to:
- People who are moderately to severely immunocompromised and may not have an adequate immune response to COVID-19 vaccines.
- People with a history of serious adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines and/or vaccine components.
The Florida Department of Health will continue to update the public as this therapy is delivered by the federal government and becomes available from providers. Eligible individuals should contact their health care provider if they are interested in receiving this pre-exposure therapy.
Oral antivirals: Paxlovid and Molnupiravir
Paxlovidfrom Pfizer, and Molnupiravir, from Merck, are antiviral pills (for oral treatment) licensed for people with mild to moderate COVID-19. These antiviral treatments are available by prescription only and should be started as soon as possible following the diagnosis of COVID-19, and within five days of the onset of symptoms. Those who qualify should contact their health care provider to find out if this treatment option is right for them.
In order to receive Paxlovid, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be 12 years of age or older.
- Have a positive COVID-19 test result.
- Being at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19, including hospitalization or death.
Molnupiravir is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. In order to receive Molnupiravir, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Have a positive COVID-19 test result.
- Being at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19, including hospitalization or death.
On the website of emergency use authorization Resources, guidance, and fact sheets for health care providers, as well as patients and caregivers, can be found from the US Food and Drug Administration.
Monoclonal antibody treatments may be prescribed by health care providers for people 12 years of age or older who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 and are at high risk for severe illness and hospitalization.
However, in support of Governor DeSantis’ initiative, there is now a standing order in Florida, signed by the State Surgeon General, that allows patients to receive this treatment without a prescription or referral if it is administered by a health care provider that is compliant. with the requirements. These referrals are not required at any of the State of Florida monoclonal antibody treatment centers and treatments are available at no cost to patients.
Antibodies help the immune system to effectively recognize and respond to the virus. In accordance with treatment guidelinesshould be administered as soon as possible following diagnosis. By providing access to these treatments at these new centers, Governor DeSantis is easing the demand on hospital resources and further ensuring that Floridians have access to all potential treatments that can help them recover from COVID-19.
For more information, call the Florida Department of Health Monoclonal Antibody Treatment Support Line: 850-344-9637.
