Overview:
Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion is a combination medication of two antibodies used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 infection in adults and children above 12 years of age (less than 40kg). It is available as an IV (intravenous) infusion or subcutaneous injection and is administered by a trained healthcare professional only. The infusion is used to prevent and treat mild to moderate coronavirus infections and for those at high risk for the progression of the infection. Both Casirivimab and Imdevimab are antibodies and are involved in actively fighting a viral infection.
Inform the physician if there is a previous allergy to antibody drugs and do not take the infusion in case of hypersensitivity.
Drug Group:
Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion belongs to the class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. This combination is also regarded as an antiviral medication. Monoclonal antibodies fight against a specific disease-causing agent (antigen) and function similarly to the body's natural immune mechanism. Some examples of other monoclonal antibodies include Adalimumab, Rituximab, and Trastuzumab, among others.
What Is Casirivimab and Imdevimab Infusion Used For?
Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion is specifically used for the following conditions:
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Treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and children of 12 years or above weighing at least 40 kilograms of body weight and are tested positive for direct SARS-CoV-2 viral testing, and also for those who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, leading to hospitalization or death.
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Prevention of COVID-19 infection post-exposure to the virus for adults and children of 12 years of age or above weighing at least 40 kg of body weight who are:
i) At high risk for progression of the infection to severe COVID-19, leading to hospitalization or death.
ii) Not fully vaccinated or for those not expected to show a complete immune response to SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) vaccination.
Example: People with immune disease or those taking immunosuppressive drugs.
How Does Casirivimab and Imdevimab Infusion Work?
As indicated, Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion is a combination medication of two monoclonal antibodies- Casirivimab and Imdevimab.
Monoclonal antibodies refer to laboratory-produced proteins which are used against various infections. It imitates the immune system's capacity to combat dangerous diseases, including viruses like SARS-CoV-2.
Onset of Action:
The drug is given intravenously (into the vein) and reaches its maximum concentration in the blood within seven to eight hours. The action may last as long as four weeks, and a subsequent dose is usually given after four weeks.
Habit-Forming:
No habit-forming tendencies are reported for individuals who are given Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion.
Expiry Date:
The medication should not be taken past the expiry date, which will be available on the back of the infusion or drug packet.
What Is the Dosage of Casirivimab and Imdevimab Infusion?
Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion is given to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death associated with COVID-19 infection.
The medication is administered by a nurse/doctor/qualified health professional only.
It is available as an injection solution: (Casirivimab - Imdevimab) 60mg/1ml-60mg/1ml injection.
The general dosing information for the medication is as follows:
How Is Casirivimab and Imdevimab Infusion Used?
For Infusion:
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A tiny tube with a needle attached is injected directly into one of the patient's veins to provide the injection.
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The IV (intravenous) bag holding the recommended medication is attached to this tubing. The fluid gradually drops into the bloodstream or circulation after being linked to a vein.
Missed Dose:
If the subsequent dosing, which is done four weeks after the last dose, is missed, contact the healthcare provider immediately and take the shot or infusion as directed.
Overdosing:
Chances of overdosing are minimal as the drug is administered under medical supervision.
What Are the Contraindications of Casirivimab and Imdevimab Infusion?
The use of the infusion is strictly unadvised if there is a previous history of allergies to antibody medications or any of their components.
What Are the Drug Warnings and Precautions?
The precautions and warnings of the medication include
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Hypersensitivity: Avoid use in case of extreme sensitivity to the active or inactive ingredients of the medication.
For COVID-19 infection, the chance of progression of the disease is higher in people having the following conditions:
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Age (less than 65 years).
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Lung diseases.
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Kidney diseases.
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Immunocompromised individuals (AIDS, blood cancer, etc.).
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For those taking immunosuppressive drugs.
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Obesity (extreme body fat).
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Heart diseases.
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Pregnancy.
Prophylaxis (treatment for preventing the disease) may be provided for these patients under high risk.
What Are the Side Effects of Casirivimab and Imdevimab Infusion?
The most common side effects while taking the drug include
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Nausea.
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Diarrhea.
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Dizziness.
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Vomiting.
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Itchiness.
These symptoms are common and will usually resolve on their own.
The severe side effects include
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Allergic reactions (hives, swelling, shortness of breath, muscle pain, and severe headache).
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Weakness.
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Confusion.
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Slow heart rate.
If these symptoms appear, immediately notify the healthcare provider.
What Are the Interactions of Casirivimab and Imdevimab Infusion?
1. With Drugs:
Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion can cause adverse effects if the patient has taken the COVID vaccine recently. Also, inform about all the prescription and nonprescription medications that are taken.
2. With Alcohol:
Alcohol interactions of Casirivimab and Imdevimab infusion have not been reported. However, notify the doctor before taking alcoholic beverages or food.
3. With Food:
No interactions have been reported.
