Monoclonal antibody therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of developing COVID-19 after an exposure, and to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death in high risk individuals who are infected. It can be given either as an injection or infusion. It is not FDA approved, but rather has an Emergency Use Authorization for adults and children ages 12 and older weighing over 40 kg (88 lbs).
Who qualifies for Anti-COVID-19 monoclonal antibodies?
The FDA defines who qualifies for Anti-COVID-19 monoclonal antibodies, and guidance is specific whether infected or exposed.
If infected with COVID-19
Individuals must have symptoms of COVID-19, be within 10 days of symptom onset and have a high-risk condition*. Persons hospitalized for COVID-19 or on supplemental oxygen are not candidates for monoclonal antibody therapy.
If exposed to COVID-19
Individuals must be within 7 days of exposure, have insufficient immunity to COVID (i.e. are unimmunized, incompletely immunized, or fully vaccinated but immunocompromised) and have a high-risk condition (see below).
High-risk conditions
- Older than 65 years
- Pregnancy
- Chronic kidney disease
- Immunosuppressive disease or immunosuppressive treatment
- Cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure
- Chronic lung disease
- Sickle cell disease
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Tracheostomy, gastrostomy, or positive pressure ventilation (not for COVID)
What to expect
If you believe you qualify for anti-COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatment, call your healthcare provider to discuss next steps. A KVH care team will guide you through steps to determine your eligibility, provide pre-treatment counseling, and arrange for treatment.
If you do not have a healthcare provider, please contact KVH Family Medicine – Cle Elum at 509.674.5331 and they will assist in connecting you to a physician to discuss next steps.
You will receive the medication either as an intravenous infusion or as four injections. The FDA requires that you be observed for one hour after you have received the medication.
For additional information, please review the FDA patient fact sheet.