Monoclonal Antibody Therapy

Some common conditions that may make you at higher risk for developing severe COVID-19 include: 

• Obesity 
• Chronic kidney disease 
• Heart disease/high blood pressure 
• Chronic lung disease 
• Pregnancy 
• Immunosuppressive diseases or treatments such as chemotherapy 
• Diabetes 
• Older age 
• Sickle cell disease 
• Neurodevelopmental disorders 
• Having technological dependence on a medical device such as a tracheostomy 

For a more complete list, go to the CDC website. 

• People in the hospital with COVID-19 
• People whose symptoms appeared more than 10 days ago 
• People on oxygen therapy because of COVID-19 
• People already on oxygen therapy from other conditions who then need more oxygen due to COVID-19 

Yes. An order is required.

The severity or status of your condition is the determining factor as to who receives this therapy and when. For example, someone with five high-risk factors who has had symptoms for five days will likely be scheduled for therapy before someone with fewer high-risk factors who has had symptoms for two days.

No. Monoclonal antibodies are NOT a substitute for a COVID-19 vaccine. It is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that you get vaccinated after completing your monoclonal antibody therapy. However, you must wait at least 90 days after you receive this therapy to get a vaccine.

How will I receive monoclonal antibodies?

You will go to an infusion center where monoclonal antibodies will be given to you through a vein (intravenous or IV) in your arm, which takes at least 20 minutes. A possible option for lower risk patients is through four injections under your skin in different spots (one in both arms, one in the thigh and one in the stomach) during one visit.

You will be observed for any reactions and your vital signs monitored throughout therapy and for one hour afterward.

Tell your medical professional about all your health conditions, including if you: 

• Have any allergies 
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant 
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed 
• Have any serious illnesses 
• Are taking any medications (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins and herbal products) 

Possible side effects include, but are not limited to:

Allergic reactions. Allergic reactions can happen during and after infusion. Tell your medical professional right away if you get: fever, chills, nausea, headache, shortness of breath, low blood pressure, wheezing, rash (including hives and itching), muscle aches, dizziness, and/or swelling of your lips, face or throat.

NOTE: You will be observed in the infusion center for any reactions and your vital signs monitored throughout therapy and for one hour afterward.

Infusion/injection site effects. These include brief pain around the injection site, along with bleeding, bruising, soreness, swelling and infection at the infusion site.

No, but monoclonal antibody therapy has been granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA. As noted earlier, in a clinical trial, scientists found that people who received this therapy within 10 days of COVID-19 symptoms starting were less likely to be admitted to the hospital.

This therapy is most effective and targeted for those who were diagnosed with COVID-19 early on and are at high risk for developing a severe case of the virus. Those with symptoms appearing more than 10 days ago are NOT eligible for this therapy.

Monoclonal antibody therapy is scheduled by appointment and requires an order from a doctor or advanced practice clinician. After that person places the order, you usually will hear back from our infusion center within a day or two. How quickly typically depends on the severity of your disease, number of risk factors and days you have exhibited symptoms. 

Locations are listed below. Hours are flexible. When possible, Prisma Health will match your schedule and nearest site for your therapy.

Midlands locations: 

• Columbia: 10 Richland Medical Park Dr., Prisma Health Richland campus 
• Sumter: Infusion Center at 129 N. Washington St., Prisma Health Tuomey campus 

Upstate locations:   

• Greenville: 877 W. Faris Road, across from Prisma Health Greenville Memorial campus 
• Greer: 109 Physicians Dr., Suite A, Prisma Health Greer campus 
• Seneca: 298 Memorial Dr., Infusion Center at Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital (first floor of Outpatient Center)

Yes, most insurance companies cover this therapy. Ask your specific carrier. If you do not have insurance, you can still receive this therapy.

At Prisma Health, you will receive a handout containing “after care” instructions.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's web page on People with Certain Medical Conditions.