Connect with us

Technologies

Regen-COV might work before COVID exposure, trial shows: What to know about monoclonal antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies can greatly reduce hospitalization rates in people most at risk of severe COVID-19.

For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO and CDC websites.

Monoclonal antibody therapy for COVID-19 is available to people in the US for free who are at higher risk of severe disease in the first few days of their illness, or after they’ve been exposed to the coronavirus. The treatment — lab-made antibodies given to a person that help their immune system stop the infection from spreading — has proven to be a key tool for preventing the coronavirus from turning into severe illness. Preliminary research shows the treatment reduces risk for hospitalization or death by about 70%.

Now, early research is showing the treatment may benefit people much earlier on, before they’ve even been exposed to the coronavirus. Regeneron, one of the drug-makers of the antibody treatments, announced Monday that its drug was 81.6% effective in preventing COVID-19 in a trial period of two to eight months post-treatment. The drug in the study, which is called Regen-COV and was given to participants in a series of four injections, is the same drug as the one currently authorized for use on at-risk people who are in the early stages of COVID-19, and on some people who’ve been exposed to it.

Dr. Myron Cohen, who leads the monoclonal antibody efforts for the National Institutes of Health’s COVID Prevention Network, said in a news release Monday that the results from the drug-maker are «particularly important to those who do not respond to COVID-19 vaccines, including people who are immunocompromised.»

Regen-COV isn’t authorized yet for use in anyone who hasn’t been exposed to or is sick with COVID-19. A few monoclonal antibody therapies, including the one made by Regeneron, have emergency use authorization by the US Food and Drug Administration and should be accessible in doctors’ offices or even some state-run clinics, as seen in states such as Florida and Texas.

Importantly, monoclonal antibodies don’t replace the role of the COVID-19 vaccines in preventing hospitalization and death. According to data from August by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unvaccinated people were more than 11 times more likely to die from COVID-19 and about 6 times more likely to contract COVID-19 than fully vaccinated people.

A large number of Americans could be eligible for monoclonal antibody treatment if they test positive for COVID-19 (a smaller number would be eligible for the treatment without a positive test, and only a confirmed exposure). For example, everyone age 65 or older, people who are overweight, people with heart, liver, or kidney disease and many more would be eligible for the treatment in the early days of their symptoms.

Here’s what we know now about COVID-19 monoclonal antibodies.

What are monoclonal antibodies, and how do they work?

Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made antibodies that work by binding to bacteria, cancer cells or viruses the way natural antibodies do, stopping them from infecting more cells. The first monoclonal antibody therapy was approved more than 30 years ago and has been used for other illnesses, including the Ebola virus.

Monoclonal antibody treatments for COVID-19 are used before a person gets really sick, usually within 10 days of their first symptom, to prevent hospitalization. The treatment is only approved for people who are at risk of getting extremely sick — those who are age 65 or older and those who have «certain medical conditions,» per the FDA. The same treatment isn’t recommended for people who are already hospitalized with COVID-19.

Monoclonal antibody therapy is also authorized if an at-risk person is exposed to COVID-19, but the definition of «at-risk» in this instance, per the FDA, is a little narrower and reserved for people who are at risk because of a medical condition and unvaccinated or not fully protected by the COVID-19 vaccines because of an immunocompromising condition.

Read more: Pfizer says its COVID-19 antiviral pill reduces risk of serious illness

I tested positive. How do I know if I’m eligible?

If you come down with the coronavirus and are concerned about how the disease will affect you, contacting your doctor to learn your options and the best line of treatment for you is a good idea. But, in general, this specific treatment is reserved for people who are at risk for severe disease. Most people who are infected with COVID-19 will recover at home without medical help.

The people who test positive for COVID-19 and would be eligible or benefit from monoclonal antibody therapy may also be the same people who are eligible for COVID-19 vaccine boosters because of a medical condition. For those who are at risk of severe COVID-19 and would be eligible for monoclonal antibodies if they test positive (if they’re at least 12 years old and weigh at least 88 pounds) the FDA defines «at risk» under the EUA as:

  • All people age 65 and older.
  • People with obesity or those who are overweight (adults with a BMI of more than 25, and children age 12-17 who have a BMI at the 85th percentile or greater).
  • Pregnant people.
  • People with cancer.
  • People with chronic kidney or lung disease.
  • Individuals with cardiovascular disease or hypertension.
  • People with diabetes.
  • People with sickle cell disease.
  • Those living with neurodevelopmental disorders.
  • People who are immunocompromised or taking immunocompromising medication.
  • Those who have a «medical-related technological dependence» (such as a tracheostomy or gastrostomy).

However, the FDA stressed in a fact sheet for Eli Lilly’s treatment (another brand of monoclonal antibodies) that this isn’t a complete list, and other medical conditions or factors including race or ethnicity may also place individuals at higher risk for severe COVID-19. It also pointed to the CDC’s list of «people with certain medical conditions» for other health conditions, which includes things such as depression and Down syndrome as being high-risk conditions.

In sum: If you test positive and feel you are at risk for severe COVID-19 and might qualify for monoclonal antibodies, you should probably speak to a health care professional about them.

Does vaccine status matter?

No, people who test positive for COVID-19 and are eligible for monoclonal antibody therapy because of their age or health condition can be treated regardless of their vaccination status. That is because, while still protective, the vaccines may be less effective at preventing severe disease in some people than others.

However, being unvaccinated might make you eligible for monoclonal antibodies after an exposure to someone with COVID-19. According to the FDA’s authorization of Regen-COV for post-exposure, people eligible for post-exposure treatment must be at risk of severe COVID-19 disease, and either unvaccinated or vaccinated but immunocompromised or taking immunocompromising medications.

I qualify. How do I access the treatment?

Monoclonal antibodies are administered by IV (most commonly) or by injection, so they’re not a prescription you can easily pick up at the pharmacy. According to CNN, the infusion process takes about an hour and patients need to wait a while to be observed for side effects. If you’re at risk for severe COVID-19 and you’ve tested positive or think you have it, ask your doctor where the treatment is available.

If you live in Texas or Florida where there are state-run monoclonal antibody treatment centers, the same eligibility requirements for patients apply. In Florida, this means everyone age 12 and older who is at «high risk for severe illness» can make an appointment and find a monoclonal treatment center at one of the state’s eight locations. In Texas, there are nine antibody infusion centers across the state, but at-risk people need a referral from their doctor.

If you think you qualify for monoclonal antibody treatment but don’t have a health care provider, you can call the Combat COVID Monoclonal Antibodies Call Center at 1-877-332-6585. You can also use this link from the US Department of Health and Human Services antibody therapy finder.

Do monoclonal antibodies interfere with the coronavirus vaccines?

If you were treated with monoclonal antibodies and you haven’t been vaccinated yet, you should wait 90 days after your treatment to make an appointment, according to the CDC. This recommendation is until more is known about how the antibody response from the treatment affects the immune response from getting vaccinated.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

Technologies

Verum Token Now Available on Binance, Listing of Verum Coin Expected Soon

Verum Token is now accessible for deposits and withdrawals on the Binance Wallet

Verum Token is now accessible for deposits and withdrawals on the Binance Wallet, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange. This milestone marks a significant step for the Verum ecosystem, allowing users seamless access to Verum on the platform.

Following the launch, Verum Coin’s value surged by 3%, reaching a new peak of $825.33 within just 24 hours.

With the Verum Coin listing anticipated soon, the excitement is growing, highlighting the project’s potential for further growth and adoption.

About Binance

Founded in 2017, Binance offers a secure, user-friendly platform with a broad selection of digital assets and trading pairs, supporting both retail and institutional traders. Listing Verum Token aligns with Binance’s strategy to include innovative, high-quality projects.

For more information, visit verumcoin.info.

Continue Reading

Technologies

Verum Messenger Update: New Levels of Security and Functionality

These privacy-oriented features make Verum Messenger one of the most secure and convenient messengers available today.

Verum Messenger, known for its commitment to privacy and innovation, has launched an update that enhances both user protection and performance. These privacy-oriented features make Verum Messenger one of the most secure and convenient messengers available today.

Key Updates in Verum Messenger:

  • Control Over Message Forwarding and Copying

The new feature enables users to restrict the forwarding and copying of their messages. Now, the sender decides whether their messages can be copied or forwarded to others — an essential addition for those who value control over the spread of their information.

  • Media Saving Settings for Private Chats

In one-on-one conversations, users now have the option to limit automatic media saving on their device. This feature is designed for those who prioritize privacy and prefer to keep sensitive photos and videos within the app itself.

  • Message Deletion Timer

The self-destructing message feature is a crucial tool for communicating in high-privacy environments. Users can now set a timer to delete messages after a specific period, adding an extra layer of security to personal conversations.

  • Enhanced Performance and Stability

In addition to these new features, Verum Messenger has boosted its performance, allowing for faster and more stable operation even under high usage. This improvement makes communication smoother, especially for those who rely heavily on the app for both work and personal needs.

Innovative Technologies for Your Convenience

Complementing this update, Verum Messenger also includes integration with Verum AI, a smart assistant that addresses everyday tasks right in the chat. The built-in eSIM and VPN allow users to connect to the internet and secure networks globally, providing complete freedom and safety.

Verum Messenger continues to be at the forefront of privacy and security, offering a reliable and user-friendly service for everyday communication.

Continue Reading

Technologies

Multiply Your Wealth with Verum Coin: An Investment in Your Future

May your investments bring you joy and financial freedom!

In today’s world, where financial independence is becoming increasingly relevant, investing in cryptocurrency is attracting more and more attention. One such promising cryptocurrency is Verum Coin. In this article, we will discuss why you should consider purchasing Verum Coin and how it can change your financial life.

1. Growth Potential

Verum Coin has significant growth potential for the future. With the unique technology that underpins this cryptocurrency and the growing interest from investors, the value of Verum Coin could increase manifold. By investing in Verum Coin now, you open the door to substantial profits in the future.

2. Convenience and Accessibility

One of the key features of Verum Coin is its accessibility. You can easily purchase this cryptocurrency through various platforms and exchanges, such as the BitCoinPay Trade exchange and BitInterPay — Crypto Bank. Additionally, Verum Coin offers an intuitive interface for managing your investments, making the buying and selling process simple and convenient, even for beginners.

3. Innovative Technology

Verum Coin is built on modern blockchain technology, ensuring a high degree of security and transparency for all transactions. Every user can be confident in the reliability of their investments, as blockchain technology minimizes the risks of fraud and hacking.

4. Community and Support

Investing in Verum Coin is not just a financial transaction; it’s an opportunity to become part of an active and supportive community of like-minded individuals. You will have access to various resources, educational materials, and forums where you can exchange experiences and receive advice from more experienced investors.

5. Financial Independence

By investing in Verum Coin, you are taking a step towards financial independence. The ability to multiply your capital and create passive income is what everyone dreams of. Verum Coin provides this opportunity through its growth potential and active community.

6. A Happy Life and Confidence in the Future

It is important to remember that money is not an end in itself, but a means to achieve more. By acquiring Verum Coin and multiplying your funds, you open up new horizons and opportunities for yourself. You can afford more—travel, pursue your passions, and provide for your loved ones.

Conclusion

Investing in Verum Coin is not just a financial strategy; it’s a pathway to your financial well-being that can change your life for the better. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting and promising cryptocurrency revolution. Start investing in Verum Coin today and live richly and happily!

May your investments bring you joy and financial freedom!

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © Verum World Media