Saskatchewan set to offer monoclonal antibodies as COVID treatment

Saskatchewan has added another weapon in its fight against COVID-19.

In a media release, the provincial government announced monoclonal antibodies will be available starting Monday to what it called “clinically appropriate patients” who have COVID.

“Monoclonal antibodies may be used in early treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 illness in unvaccinated patients who are deemed at-risk for progression to severe illness that would require hospitalization,” the government’s release said.

“This treatment uses laboratory-made antibodies (proteins) and is intended to give those with no prior antibodies to COVID-19 an initial immune response that may prevent serious illness.

“It may also be helpful in preventing severe COVID-19 illness in people with weakened immune systems who may not generate a robust response to the COVID-19 vaccines.”

The treatment only is effective in the early phases of COVID infection.

Treating clinicians will make the decision to prescribe monoclonal antibodies and will base it on criteria set out by the product monograph and by published guidance. They can be offered:

• For COVID-19 patients who have not been vaccinated and certain immunocompromised or immunosuppressed COVID-19 patients regardless of vaccination status;
• Within five days of becoming symptomatic; and,
• To people 55 years or older, or 18 years and older with specific high risk co-morbidity.

Individuals must be referred by a clinician. Monoclonal antibodies are a one-time treatment delivered intravenously.

At this time, the treatment only will be available from Saskatoon and Regina through Saskatchewan Health Authority testing and treatment sites. The SHA subsequently will determine if the treatment should be expanded into other regions of the province.

“Initially, eligible patients will be identified through the case investigation process,” the government said. “Beginning November 1, people who test positive for COVID-19 can self-assess their eligibility for monoclonal antibodies by visiting Saskatchewan.ca/covid-19.

“If eligible, they will be directed on next steps for booking a further assessment.”

The government said the treatments don’t replace vaccination as the best option to fight COVID. Everyone who receives monoclonal antibodies will be eligible for a COVID vaccination 90 days after they get the monoclonal antibodies.