FDA authorizes monoclonal antibody for treatment of COVID-19.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued an emergency use authorization for the investigational monoclonal antibody therapy called bamlanivimab, which Eli Lilly designed. The FDA have authorized the drug to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and children.

The decision is based on the results of a study called BLAZE-1. In a news release, Dr. Daniel Skovronsky, Ph.D., Lilly’s chief scientific officer, explained:

“The BLAZE-1 data show bamlanivimab, when given early in the disease course, may help patients clear the virus and reduce COVID-related hospitalizations, supporting our belief that neutralizing antibodies can be an important therapeutic option for patients fighting this virus.”

The FDA press release notes: “While the safety and effectiveness of this investigational therapy continue to be evaluated, bamlanivimab was shown in clinical trials to reduce COVID-19-related hospitalization or emergency room visits in patients at high risk for disease progression within 28 days after treatment when compared to placebo.”