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originally posted by: Tukota
Yesterday I became sick with a high fever and coughing. Today, I learned that I have COVID. Within four hours of being diagnosed, I received a phone call from my hospital provider in Michigan telling me that I qualify for the Anticlonal Antibody infusion because I have structural lung disease and am immunosuppressed. Both of my doctors are highly advocating for me to get this, but naturally I have concerns because it was just approved for emergency use and there have been little studies done on it, long-term. They are saying it can reduce the chance of hospitalization by up to 70%.
Have any of you had this infusion, or know of anyone that has had it?
Here is some information and a link.
Anticlonal Antibodies are similar to the antibodies that are naturally made by the immune system in response to an infection, except a monoclonal antibody is made in a lab so that it only binds to one substance. Bamlanivimab and etesevimab work to fight SARS-COV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) by binding to it and preventing it from infecting human cells. Antibody:
A protein made by plasma cells (a type of white blood cell) in response to an antigen (a substance that causes the body to make a specific immune response). Each antibody can bind to only one specific antigen to help destroy the antigen.
Bamlanivimab and etesevimab is investigational, meaning it is still being studied.
You received an FAQ sheet about these drugs based on the “Emergency Use Authorization” (EUA) requirements.
You may not feel better right away after receiving bamlanivimab and etesevimab, but that does not mean it isn’t working. The main goal of the treatment is to prevent worsening symptoms that would require admission to the hospital.
Can I still get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes, but you must wait until 90 days have passed since you received your monoclonal antibody infusion.
What side effects can occur?
Some people may have unwanted reactions to bamlanivimab and etesevimab. These are called side effects. These could include:
· Stomach upset
· Nausea
· Vomiting
· Diarrhea
· Pain, swelling, bleeding, bruising or development of infection at the IV site
However, because this treatment is still being studied, there may be other side effects that are not yet known.
www.fda.gov...
Thank you for any thoughts/info/feedback you can share. I only have a small window to make this decision.