KINGMAN – Kingman Regional Medical Center (KRMC) has begun using monoclonal antibodies to treat high-risk COVID-19 patients.
Monoclonal antibodies are proteins made in a laboratory to mimic the body’s natural immune response. With this treatment, a patient receives an intravenous (IV) infusion of the antibodies. This can enhance the patient’s ability to fight the virus that causes COVID-19.
In November, The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for certain monoclonal antibody therapies. This authorization allows the therapy for COVID-positive patients with high risk for disease progression or hospitalization.
Clinical trials suggest that the therapy can reduce COVID-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations; however, the drugs are still considered “investigational” and are not approved for use outside the EUA.
KRMC is currently using the treatment on a limited basis to treat COVID-positive patients with certain risk factors for severe disease. A physician’s order is required.
Sarah Schritter, RN, Manager of Nursing Practice is administering this therapy in a dedicated clinic three days a week.
“We’re very fortunate to be able to offer these medications to our patients,” said Schritter. “Our hope is that in using this therapy for the highest risk patients we can prevent them from needing to be hospitalized.”
For more information, visit https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/.
