Question 1

Why was bamlanivimab/etesevimab's authorization for use taken away?

Accepted Answer

On January 24, 2022, the FDA [revised](https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-limits-use-certain-monoclonal-antibodies-treat-covid-19-due-omicron) the [emergency use authorization (EUA)](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/medication-basics/fda-emergency-use-authorization) for bamlanivimab/etesevimab due to the COVID-19 omicron variant. This medication doesn't work against omicron, which is currently the main variant in the U.S. Because of this, bamlanivimab/etesevimab is no longer authorized for use in the United States at this time. The FDA might revisit bamlanivimab/etesevimab's authorization in the future if COVID-19 infections are caused by a variant that can be treated with this medication.

Question 2

How does bamlanivimab/etesevimab work?

Accepted Answer

Bamlanivimab/etesevimab is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies, __bamlanivimab__ and __etesevimab__. Bamlanivimab and etesevimab bind to certain receptors on the virus that causes COVID-19. This blocks the virus from attaching to and entering your body's cells to cause infection. By stopping the process of infection, bamlanivimab/etesevimab can help treat and prevent COVID-19 symptoms.

Question 3

Does bamlanivimab/etesevimab work against all of the COVID-19 variants?

Accepted Answer

There's a chance that bamlanivimab/etesevimab won't work against all COVID-19 variants (different versions of the virus due to changes in its genetic material). Some COVID-19 variants might be resistant to bamlanivimab/etesevimab, which means the medication won't work to treat the virus. If you tested positive for a specific COVID-19 variant (meaning you're infected with a particular version of the COVID-19 virus), let your provider know. They can determine if bamlanivimab/etesevimab would be an appropriate treatment option for you.

Question 4

What are the criteria I need to meet in order to receive bamlanivimab/etesevimab for the treatment of COVID-19?

Accepted Answer

The FDA previously authorized bamlanivimab/etesevimab for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in people (including [young children and newborns](https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-bamlanivimab-etesevimab-authorized-first-and-only)) who are at high risk of developing severe COVID-19. This includes people who're at high risk of being hospitalized or dying. There are several factors that put a person at high risk for developing severe COVID-19, including age, weight, and current medical conditions. It's best to speak with your provider as soon as possible so they can determine if you're at high risk of severe COVID-19 and if you'd qualify for this treatment.

Question 5

What are the criteria I need to meet in order to receive bamlanivimab/etesevimab for the prevention of COVID-19 after I've been exposed to the virus?

Accepted Answer

The FDA previously authorized bamlanivimab/etesevimab for post-exposure prevention of COVID-19 in people (including [young children and newborns](https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-bamlanivimab-etesevimab-authorized-first-and-only)) who're at high risk of severe COVID-19. You can qualify for this treatment if you're not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or if it's thought that your immune system won't build up a strong enough response to COVID-19 vaccinations __and__ you've been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or are at high risk of being exposed to someone with COVID-19 (e.g., people living in nursing homes or a prison).

Question 6

What are some side effects of bamlanivimab/etesevimab?

Accepted Answer

In clinical studies, the [most common side effects](https://www.fda.gov/media/145802/download) of bamlanivimab/etesevimab were nausea, dizziness, and itchiness. Rarely, severe allergic reactions  including difficulty breathing, rash, change in heart rate, fever, and chills have also been reported. Let your provider know if you have any of the symptoms above so that you can be treated appropriately.

bamlanivimab / etesevimab

What is Bamlanivimab/etesevimab?

Drug facts

Common questions about Bamlanivimab