The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences now offers monoclonal antibody treatment for qualifying people who have tested positive for COVID-19. While the treatment is not a cure for COVID-19, it is designed to ease the symptoms associated with the virus and prevent the need for hospitalization.
Qualifying patients are those with mild to moderate symptoms and have begun to show symptoms in the last 10 days, and maybe at risk for severe complications related to risk factors like:
- Ages 65 or older
- Ages 12-64 with a high risk for severe disease
- Obesity with a BMI of 25 or higher
- Pregnancy
- Long term kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Conditions or treatments that weaken or suppress the immune system
- Heart disease or high blood pressure
- Ongoing lung diseases
- Sickle cell disease
- Neurodevelopmental disorders such as cerebral palsy
- Having a medical-related dependence on a machine, such as a tracheostomy, gastrostomy, or positive pressure ventilation that is not related to COVID-19
Treatments are outpatient only, and patients will be monitored for one hour after getting the treatment to ensure there are no negative reactions.
To refer someone or find out if they are eligible for monoclonal antibody treatment email the patient’s name and contact information to HealthNow@UAMS.edu.
