Editor’s note: As of 11/30/22, monoclonal antibodies are no longer used to treat COVID-19. While the treatment has been effective in the past, it no longer works against the newer COVID-19 variants. The COVID-19 pills, Paxlovid, are still very effective and are readily available at many retail pharmacies.
In a recent fast fact video, Joe Gastaldo, MD, System Medical Director for Infectious Diseases, discusses the new monoclonal antibody option for immunocompromised.
We now have the authorization for a different type of monoclonal antibody. Evusheld is an intramuscular monoclonal antibody given to those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised – such as a transplant patient or someone receiving chemotherapy for cancer treatment.
Evusheld has a risk reduction of getting COVID of close to 80 percent in the clinical trial done that led to FDA authorization. However, the clinical trial was done prior to the Omicron variant.
Recently, lab studies were published showing the monoclonal antibody in Evusheld is less neutralizing compared to the previous variants. Nonetheless, Evusheld does have FDA authorization, and it is available to administer to those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.
Want to learn more about common COVID-19 questions? Check our Fast Facts page.
