Monoclonal Antibodies - Broad Health Network

Monoclonal Antibody Treatment

Overview
Monoclonal antibodies (moAbs or mAbs) are laboratory-engineered proteins designed to mimic the body’s natural immune response. These specialized antibodies identify and target antigens, aiding the immune system in neutralizing harmful cells or pathogens.

Common Methods of Administration

Intravenous Infusion (IV):
- Delivered through an IV at outpatient infusion centers by trained medical personnel.
- Patients are typically monitored for allergic reactions, especially during their first visit.
Subcutaneous Injection:
- Administered via shots in the abdomen or upper thighs.

Uses of Monoclonal Antibodies

Monoclonal antibody therapy is utilized for:

Research: Understanding disease mechanisms.
Diagnosis: Identifying tissue or blood types for transplants.
Treatment: Managing a variety of diseases.

Conditions Treated

Monoclonal antibodies have shown efficacy in treating:

Cancer
COVID-19
Allergies
Osteoporosis
Migraines
High cholesterol

Preparation

Setting: Performed as an outpatient procedure, typically not requiring hospitalization.
Pre-treatment Check: Ensures the patient has no existing allergies.
Minimal Restrictions: No dietary or preoperative preparations are generally needed.

Procedure

Self-Administered Therapy:
- Involves “naked” monoclonal antibodies administered independently by the patient.
Combination Therapy:
- Uses conjugated, loaded, or labeled antibodies combined with another drug.
Bispecific Monoclonal Antibodies:
- Modified antibodies designed to target two antigens simultaneously.

Follow-Up Care

Post-treatment follow-ups are determined based on individual cases, typically scheduled at intervals of 30, 60, or 100 days.
For COVID-19 patients, vaccination should be delayed by at least 90 days after treatment.

Risks and Side Effects

Common side effects include:

Fever, nausea, or shortness of breath
Headache or low blood pressure
Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
Itching, wheezing, or hyperglycemia
Inconsistent heartbeat or infection at the IV site

Pregnant individuals can generally undergo treatment without proven risks to the fetus, but the decision rests with the healthcare provider.

Recovery

Recovery time varies based on the condition treated.
For COVID-19 patients, improvement is often noticeable within 24 hours, with full recovery typically within 48 hours.

FAQs

Which conditions can monoclonal antibodies treat?
Monoclonal antibodies are used for cancers, autoimmune disorders, inflammatory conditions, and infectious diseases like COVID-19.
Do they work against virus variants?
Efficacy varies with virus mutations; ongoing research evaluates effectiveness against specific variants.
Are there age restrictions?
Eligibility depends on the condition and authorized use. Consult a healthcare provider for specific guidelines.
Can this therapy replace vaccination?
No, monoclonal antibodies are therapeutic and not preventive. Vaccines offer broader protection.
What is the success rate for specific conditions?
Success rates vary depending on factors such as timing, disease severity, and the antibodies used.

Neuromodulation

Orthopaedics

Neurosurgery

Spine Care

Neurology

Transplants

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