New Antibody Therapy for COVID-19 Patients

Premier Health is offering a new antibody therapy for those who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at high risk for severe illness but who currently are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms.

Bamlanivimab received emergency use authorization from the Food & Drug Administration in December. While the investigational therapy’s safety and effectiveness continue to be evaluated, the therapy has been shown in clinical trials to reduce COVID-19 related hospitalizations or emergency room visits in patients at high risk for disease progression within 28 days of treatment, according to its manufacturer, Eli Lilly.

Premier Health has begun offering the therapy at select ambulatory locations. This medication is not available for hospitalized patients, and its availability will be limited initially. A provider referral is required.

Patients must meet at least one of the following criteria to receive the Bamlanivimab infusion:

• Greater than or equal to 65 years of age
• Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than or equal to 35
• Chronic Kidney Disease (Stage IV or greater)
• Diabetes with A1C ≥ 8 or random blood sugar > 300 mg/dL
• Immunosuppressive Condition (solid organ transplant, ESRD or ESLD, advanced HIV, active chemotherapy, chronic high dose steroids (>30mg prednisone for >30 days), use of biologic agents for treatment of underlying diseases (i.e. TNF alpha inhibitor for RA or Crohn’s)

Are greater than or equal to 55 years of age with one or more of the following:

• Cardiovascular disease other than hypertension
• Currently receiving treatment with medication for hypertension
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Interstitial Lung Disease, Cystic Fibrosis, or Pulmonary Fibrosis

View and download the Monoclonal Therapy Order Set form.

Back to the January 2021 issue of Premier Pulse