With the emergence of variants such as Omicron, treatment options remain limited.
The U.S. government agreed to purchase up to 600,000 doses of bebtelovimab for at least $720 million.
But they are not a substitute for vaccination against COVID-19.
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Being vaccinated is still the best way to protect yourself and others.
Lillys prior monoclonal antibody formulation was a mixture of two drugs called bamlanivimab and etesevimab.
Bebtelovimab, the new monoclonal antibody, was created with viral variants like Omicron in mind.
The authorized dose is 175 mg given intravenously over at least 30 seconds.
Like other monoclonal antibodies, bebtelovimab shouldnt be used for patients who are already hospitalized.
Possible side effects of the drug include itching, rash, infusion-related reactions, nausea, and vomiting.
Veklury (remdesivir), too, appears to neutralize Omicron andmaintains its FDA authorizationnationwide.
The antiviral IV infusion can be used to reduce the risk of hospitalization in many individuals with mild-to-moderate COVID-19.
Health officials are hoping that Lillys new drug will help ease the strain on COVID treatment supply.
For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.COVID data tracker: variant proportions.
