New research shows that monoclonal antibody treatments have not been proven effective against the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
FDA will soon decide if monoclonal antibody treatments produced by Eli Lily and Regeneron can be used.
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What is monoclonal antibody treatment?
Eli Lily and Regeneron developed monoclonal antibody treatment to combat symptoms or exposure to the COVID-19 virus. It is intended for those who have tested positive.
Since then, Regeneron has publicly stated its monoclonal antibody treatment is not effective against the Omicron variant. Read more about it here.
National Institutes of Health have updated their guidelines to advise against the use of this treatment. It has been proven to diminished effectiveness against Omicron in patients with mild to moderate symptoms.
The CDC estimates more than 99% of COVID-19 cases have the Omicron variant.
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Is this treatment still being used?
Despite the new research, roughly 13,000 doses of Regeneron have been used in Florida. That is more doses than any other three states combined.
Florida governor Ron DeSantis has continued to push for the treatment to remain widely available. His endorsement became clear after the Biden administration called for a pause on shipments of monoclonal antibody.
Greg Abbott, Texas governor, has followed DeSantis’ lead. Infusion centers have since been popping up and are state funded.
Many are concerned about the negative side effects from monoclonal antibody treatment. National Institutes of Health have reported symptoms on behalf of patients. Those who have received it have complained of rashes, diarrhea, nausea and dizziness. There have also been cases of allergic reactions.
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