What is Antibody Therapy?
An antibody is a protein that the body makes to fight off viruses and other foreign substances. The antibodies used in antibody therapy (also called monoclonal antibody therapy, or MAB) are made in a lab and are designed to block viral attachment and entry into human cells, which neutralizes the virus that causes COVID-19. Antibody therapy can treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in those who meet certain criteria.
Who Should Get Screened for Antibody Therapy?
If you are an adult in Arkansas who has recently tested positive for COVID-19, you can take the online screening. It will ask questions about your overall health and other factors. Depending on your answers to the questions, you may be referred to the Family Medical Center in Little Rock for infusion therapy.
What Happens During Antibody Therapy?
The therapy is given via intravenous (IV) infusion at the Family Medical Center by appointment. The medication takes about 1 hour to infuse. After the infusion is complete, patients stay for another hour so that we can watch for infusion reactions, such as allergic reactions. If a patient tolerates the medication well, they are discharged to go home.