Just approved: Evusheld for the pre-exposure prevention of COVID-19

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/08/business/fda-authorizes-astrazeneca-drug-immunocompromised.html
https://thenyledger.com/business/the-f-d-a-authorizes-astrazeneca-drug-to-protect-people-with-immune-problems/
Haven’t seen much else yet, but I expect there will be more soon in the medical journals. I’m hopeful!

Thanks, Athena.

Dr. Poland (podcast 12/15/2021) stated that monoclonal antibodies by AstraZeneca has just been approved for immune compromised individuals. How can I find out where to get this treatment? My PCP is not aware of this update.

Astra Zeneca has a website specifically for citizens to ask questions.
https://www.astrazeneca-us.com/

@codered032, @mpeters and all...Well, thank you! I asked my PCP for input on getting the Astrazeneca drug as I have immune issues, etc. He had no idea it is approved for pre-covid use. I am shocked at why the doctors don't know about treatments. My PCP is very good but has pretty much been behind the lines on movement in this direction.
I think the PCP population should be receiving the vaccines directly to give to patients directly. That's the only way to get a lot more folks vaccinated. And, I thought he would be on top of the latest, but I'm giving him information.
I asked him if I should get this treatment. He said only if I test positive. Thank you for mentioning this. I'm contacting the website now. In Florida, we have clinics and sites giving monoclonal antibioties treatments. One is a crucial care clinic down the street.
Blessings and be well, safe. elizabeth

Hi Codered,
I merged your discussion with this existing discussion about EVUSHELD as mentioned by Dr. Poland in this podcast https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/podcasts/newsfeed-post/experts-urge-covid-19-boosters-to-fight-omicron-surge/

As @mpeters mentioned you can find more information on the manufacturer's website - AstraZeneca

- EVUSHELD long-acting antibody combination retains neutralizing activity against Omicron variant in independent FDA study https://www.astrazeneca-us.com/media/press-releases/2021/evusheld-long-acting-antibody-combination-retains-neutralizing-activity-against-omicron-variant-in-independent-fda-study.html

"This drug is intended to help people who have received organ or other transplants, and those have cancer or take immune-suppressing drugs for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions prevent COVID vaccines from being fully effective. The new antibody drug will also benefit people who have allergic reactions to vaccines.

The FDA emphasized that Evusheld is not a substitute for a COVID vaccination in people for whom the vaccine is recommended."

Read more here: https://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20211209/antibody-drug-authorized-for-compromised-immune-systems

Colleen, thank you for the information. I have had all three Pfizer vaccines I have produced very few antibodies. My last antibody test results were “abnormal”. Don’t know what that means.

My nephrologist has informed me, that since I have not had a good response to the Pfizer vaccine, I could be a candidate for the EVUSHELD. Currently it is not available at this facility. He has referred me for the treatment when it becomes available.

I am a retired RN so I know a little something about the behind the seen at the doctors office. Most doctors are overwhelmed with everyday treatment lssues. My doctor, by no fault of his own, is overbooked. My last three visits were limited to 15 minutes and that included time spent with his nurse. Several doctors have left the practice, and he was out for six weeks with COVID-19! Everyone in the office appeared overwhelmed and over worked! As an RN I know what that feels like. This is an unprecedented time for everyone. I encourage everyone to become their own best advocate. Share information with your family, friends and medical team. Finding this website has been a great resource for me. I am not complaining but explaining. God Bless

I had to give the Evusheld information to my PCP as well. I also want to go to Crucial Care but it's been 4 days since I asked my PCP and I've heard nothing. Mayo would not give me a referral for my first Covid vaccine either. What is the problem here? I am very disappointed in Mayo.