HHS goes live with online locator of COVID-countering therapeutic drugs
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has posted an interactive map showing the locations of drug distributors that have recently received shipments of two monoclonal antibody medications good for treating COVID-19.
The drugs, Eli Lilly’s Bamlanivimab preparation and Regeneron’s Casirivimab/Imdevimab cocktail, were OK’d for emergency use by the FDA in November.
Drugs in this class are manufactured proteins that imitate natural immune responses to counter viruses and other pathogens.
HHS intends the map for use by outpatients as well as providers.
Robert Kadlec, MD, the HHS’s assistant secretary for preparedness and response, says use of the treatment locator “may help reduce the number of people who require hospitalization for COVID-19 care, which in turn reduces the strain on our nation’s hospitals and their staff.”
The agency notes that states and, with them, distribution sites, may opt out of the map listings.
Access the map here.
Dave P. has worked in journalism, marketing and public relations for more than 30 years, frequently concentrating on hospitals, healthcare technology and Catholic communications. He has also specialized in fundraising communications, ghostwriting for CEOs of local, national and global charities, nonprofits and foundations.