The body naturally produces antibodies to fight off infection. But, it is possible that your body does not be equipped with antibodies that can identify a novel (or unique) virus such as SARS-CoV-2 the COVID-19 virus. Monoclonal antibody, or mAbs are produced in a lab in order to combat an infection (in this case, it’s SARS-CoV-2) and are administered directly to you via an infusion. The mAb treatment can be beneficial if you’re the highest risk of developing severe symptoms or an inpatient stay.
The COVID-19 mAb treatment differs from COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine stimulates your body’s immune system, however, it can take weeks to build up enough antibodies against viruses. If you’re suffering from the virus the mAb treatment will give an immune system with the protection it requires to safeguard itself. The mAb treatment doesn’t substitute for the immunity that comes from vaccination however it could help in the event that you are in danger of developing COVID-19.
What can I expect from Monoclonal Antibody Therapy?
The mAb treatment is typically provided in an infusion facility because the treatment is delivered via a vein within the body (IV infusion) or in the form of an injection (injection) as well as shots (series of shots). Based on the treatment you choose to receive, the entire procedure can take between 1 and 3 hours.
First, medical staff perform a health check-up and then begin an IV that delivers the mAbs to the body within a little over an hour. The procedure is quicker when the treatment for mAb is given to you in several shots.
After that, the medical team will ask you to remain in the center for an additional hour to ensure that you don’t suffer from an allergic reaction or other adverse consequences. The chances of having these reactions are very low however the medical team needs to monitor your condition for the duration of this time and be able to respond promptly in the event of reactions.
You’ll be allowed to return home once the medical team has assessed you after the infusion.
If you do feel better, it’s important to realize that you might continue to spread the virus for a time. This means that you’ll have to be able to shut yourself off (be entirely alone) until the following circumstances occur:
- At the very least, five days has passed from the first symptoms of COVID-19.
- There has not been any fever in the last 24 hours, and you have not taken any medication that lowers the severity of fever.
- Other symptoms of COVID-19 are getting better.
Important Take care to follow your doctor’s instructions. Based on your individual medical history, you might require other medical requirements. If you begin feeling worse and you feel uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to seek medical attention.
Does Monoclonal Antibody Treatment Make Me Feel Sick?
Antibody treatments do not have any live virus, therefore there is no chance that you’ll contract COVID-19 through mAb treatments. But, the treatment can cause adverse effects.
- Allergic reactions can occur in the course of and following an infusion of antibodies. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience one of these signs or indications that indicate an allergic reaction nausea, chills, fever and shortness of breath, headache and lower or elevated blood pressure or a slow or rapid heart rate chest pain or discomfort and anxiety or confusion, tiredness and wheezing. You may also experience swelling of your face, lips and throat. You may also experience a rash that includes itching, hives pain, feeling faint and dizzy, as well as sweating.
- Infusions of any medication can cause a brief bleeding, pain, or swelling on the face, redness, swelling, and possibly infection at the site of the infusion.
This is not the only list of possible side effects associated with anti-body treatment. Unexpected and serious side effects can occur. A few possible risks of the treatment of antibodies include:
- It can hinder your body’s ability in fighting against a possible infection caused by COVID-19.
- It can lower your body’s immune reaction to a COVID-19 vaccine.
The COVID-19 mAb treatment as well as other treatments approved to be used in emergencies from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are being investigated. It is therefore possible that we don’t have all the potential risks. As scientists continue to research COVID-19 and the effects of mAb treatments on it, we’ll learn more about the potential risks. If you have questions ask your doctor.
