The Covid-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has become a normal part of our lives now, right? But medical science is still trying to find new treatments and medicines against this disease. Just like that, Bebtelovimab is a special drug that is used to reduce the severity of the disease when COVID-19 develops. Since many people are not exactly aware of this, let's talk about it simply and in a friendly way today.
What exactly is Bebtelovimab?
Simply put, Bebtelovimab is a type of protein specially made in a laboratory. We call this a 'monoclonal antibody'. Think of it like the immune system in our body is like an army defending a country. When the Covid-19 virus enters the body, this army goes into battle. Bebtelovimab is like a specially trained commando team sent in to help in that battle.
Its main function is to stop the Covid-19 virus from multiplying in the body and causing severe symptoms. That is, to reduce the risk of hospitalization and prevent the disease from progressing to a more severe condition such as pneumonia.
The important thing is that this drug has not been fully approved by the US FDA. However, it has been granted Emergency Use Authorization (EAU) in view of its potential to save lives in an emergency situation like the Covid-19 pandemic.
Things you need to tell your doctor before giving this medicine
If you have COVID-19 and your doctor decides to give you Bebtelovimab, it is very important that you tell him/her everything about your medical history. In particular, you should tell him/her the following:
- Any allergies you have: You may have allergies to other medications, foods, dust, etc. Tell us about them all.
- Other serious illnesses: If you have any other serious medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney disease, please disclose them.
- If you have recently received a COVID-19 vaccine: Tell your doctor if you have recently received any dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: This is very important. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, suspect you are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant soon.
- If you are breastfeeding your baby: If you are a breastfeeding mother, you should also inform the doctor.
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether to give you this treatment or not, and if so, how to give it.
How do you use this medicine?
This is not a pill or syrup that you can take at home. Bebtelovimab is an injection that is given directly into a vein (intravenous injection) . This means that this treatment is only given in a hospital or clinic, under the full supervision of a medical staff such as a doctor or nurse.
There will be a separate time period during and after the treatment to monitor the patient's condition. Therefore, you will not be able to take this medicine home.
Do you give this to children?
Yes, this treatment can be given to children aged 12 years and above, weighing more than 40 kilograms, if they are at risk of severe COVID-19 disease, on medical recommendation. However, special care is taken.
What happens if you take too much medicine?
Since this is given under medical supervision, the chance of an 'overdose' is very low. However, if you think that something has happened, the first thing to do is to inform the hospital staff immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What are the possible side effects of the medicine?
Like any medicine, Bebtelovimab can cause side effects in some people. These can be divided into two main categories. Some are serious and require immediate attention. Others are usually not serious and go away after a while.
This can be clearly understood from the table below.
| Bebtelovimab side effects classification | |
|---|---|
| 🚨 Serious symptoms that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Infusion-related reactions | Chills, chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, rapid or irregular heartbeat. |
| 🙂 Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist. | |
| Nausea and vomiting | Nausea or vomiting during or after taking the medicine. |
| Pain at the injection site | Pain, redness, or slight swelling around the injection site. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms that are not on this list, don't forget to inform your doctor immediately .
Are there any problems with other medications?
As it has been discovered, there may be some interaction between Bebtelovimab and the COVID-19 vaccine . Therefore, after you receive this treatment, you will need to wait a while before getting the next COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your doctor about how long that time should be and follow his or her instructions exactly.
It's also wise to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, and herbal products you're taking.
Take-Home Message
- Bebtelovimab is a special intravenous treatment that is given to prevent the severity of COVID-19.
- This treatment is only provided in a hospital or clinic, under medical supervision.
- Before treatment, inform the doctor fully about all your allergies, other illnesses, and pregnancy status.
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, notify medical staff immediately.
- Always consult your doctor about this treatment and other medications, especially the COVID-19 vaccine.
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