Regulatory agencies like the FDA and European Medicines Agency (EMA) were involved in the tests for the efficacy of monoclonal antibodies against COVID-19. The treatment is offered to patients who meet set criteria and are in the mild or moderate symptom stage. If you believe you are eligible, getting Covid antibody infusion therapy in Metairie could save you from severe symptoms and hospitalization. This post looks at all you need to know about this treatment.
What Are Monoclonal Antibodies?
Antibodies are part of your body’s natural defense mechanisms against viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Scientists have recently come up with antibodies that are specifically designed to attack this virus. Recently, tests have shown that these antibodies significantly reduce the chances of experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms and getting hospitalized if administered soon after one tests positive.
How Do They Work?
Your body naturally releases antibodies as a defense mechanism against unfamiliar molecules from viruses and bacteria (antigens). Antibodies function by binding to these antigens and hence, telling the specialized cells in your immune system to eliminate the invading pathogen.
Monoclonal antibodies are similar copies of an antibody that specifically targets one antigen. Scientists can produce these antibodies by selecting a single white blood cell, cloning it, and producing identical cells. They can also expose white blood cells to a specific antigen.
The use of monoclonal antibodies has been significantly beneficial in treating severe viral infections such as HIV and Ebola. Currently, WHO has several monoclonal antibodies to combat COVID-19.
Who Qualifies for Antibody Treatment?
Recently, the FDA authorized antibody treatments for mild to moderate COVID-19 cases if patients experience meet one of the following criteria:
- Have a BMI of 35 or more.
- Have severe diabetes, kidney disease, or an immunosuppressive health condition.
- Are between 12 and 17 years old with a BMI equal to or greater than the 85th percentile, heart disease, sickle cell disease, a neurodevelopmental disorder, or a severe respiratory illness.
- Are over 55 years old and have hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, or any other chronic respiratory disease.
It is advisable to discuss your eligibility for monoclonal antibody infusion therapy with your doctor before getting the treatment.
Possible Side Effects
As with any treatment, the monoclonal antibody treatment presents potential side effects. These symptoms could be mild or severe depending on the patient and could last an hour to two days. They include:
- Nausea
- Rash
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Chest pains
- Difficulty in breathing
If you experience any of the above-listed side effects, you should consult with the healthcare professional administering your monoclonal treatment. They should either slow or stop the monoclonal infusion and provide you with appropriate medical care.
Conclusion
The team at Align Infusion Clinic is fully equipped to provide customized monoclonal antibody infusion therapy. The clinic is clean, comfortable, and relaxing, so you never feel too anxious to go through with the treatment. If you meet the criteria or would like to discuss your eligibility with a professional, book an appointment online or call the office in Metairie, Louisiana, to schedule a consultation.