With the COVID-19 pandemic, we started hearing about various medications and treatments, right? Maybe your doctor has told you about this treatment called Bamlanivimab. So, what is Bamlanivimab? What does it actually do? Is there anything to be afraid of? Okay, let's talk about all this simply, without hiding anything, in a way that you can understand.
What is Bamlanivimab?
Simply put, Bamlanivimab is a special treatment . This is a type of medicine that we call a 'monoclonal antibody'. Imagine, when a virus enters our body, our immune system makes 'antibodies' to fight it, right? Similarly, this is a special protein that was artificially created in a laboratory to fight the Covid-19 virus.
This treatment is not given to all COVID-19 patients. It is mainly given to:
- For patients who are not hospitalized, that is, receiving treatment at home.
- People who are at higher risk of developing severe illness if they get COVID-19 (for example, those with other medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, or kidney disease).
- It is sometimes used to prevent COVID-19 infection (post-exposure prophylaxis).
The main goal of this drug is to reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and reduce the risk of hospitalization.
Importantly, this drug is not fully approved by the FDA in the United States. However, due to the emergency situation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, it has been granted Emergency Use Authorization (EAU).
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It's very important to discuss these things with your doctor honestly and completely before you undergo this treatment, because your safety comes first.
| What you need to know | Description |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to Bamlanivimab, etesevimab (another medicine given with this), or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Other medical conditions | Tell us about any serious illnesses you have, especially liver disease. |
| Covid-19 vaccine | If you have previously received a COVID-19 vaccine, inform your doctor. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, this is very important. Talk to your doctor about it. |
How do you give this medicine?
This is not a pill or syrup that you can take home. This is a medicine that is given as an intravenous infusion, like saline . This means that this treatment is given to you in a hospital or clinic, under the supervision of a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nursing staff.
Even for small children, this is given in special cases based on the doctor's decision. But special care is taken about it.
What to do if the dose increases (overdose)?
Since this is given under medical supervision, the chance of an overdose is very low. However, if you think you have had an overdose or if you experience any unusual symptoms, inform the medical team immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . In case of an emergency, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
This is a medicine prescribed for you only. Do not share it with others for any reason.
Things to be aware of and side effects when taking medication
Your medical team will monitor you closely while you are taking this medicine and after you finish taking it. If your symptoms do not improve or seem to get worse, tell your doctor right away.
Another important thing is that after receiving this treatment, you will have to wait a while before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Your doctor will tell you exactly how long that time will be.
Like any medication, this one can have some side effects. Don't be afraid, but it's important to be aware of these.
| Types of side effects and their characteristics | |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Infusion-related Reactions | Chest pain or tightness, chills, fever, flushing, stomach pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Dizziness | Spinach (Tavbruskhveva) |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Vaccination site | Pain, redness, or swelling where the injection was given. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything different or unusual, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it.
Finally, since this medicine is given in a hospital, you don't have to take it home with you. So you don't have to worry about how to store it.
Take-Home Message
- Bamlanivimab is a special treatment given to people at high risk of severe COVID-19 disease, reducing disease progression and hospitalization.
- This is an intravenous (infusion) medication, and it is given under medical supervision in a hospital or clinic.
- It is essential to inform your doctor about all your allergies, other medical conditions, and medications before treatment.
- If you experience serious symptoms such as allergic reactions (redness, swelling) or difficulty breathing during or after administration of the medicine, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions about this medicine or your condition, never hesitate to ask your doctor.
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