Texas Scores Monoclonal Antibody Treatments by Going Direct

A Texas-based radio show interviewed Governor Abbott on September 27, 2021, during which he revealed the state of Texas is procuring COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatments directly from the manufacturer.

The Dana Loesch radio program confirmed Texas bypassed the U.S. administration's new monoclonal antibody(mAb) treatment allocation plan by procuring the product directly from the provider.

In Texas, the REGEN-COV treatment is produced by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and is currently available at designated locations.

The mAb treatment is free and available to all Texans who test positive for COVID-19 and have a doctor's referral.

Previously, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced on September 13, 2021, 'it is committed to helping ensure consistent availability of these critical drugs for current and future patients in all geographic areas of the USA.'

'As such, HHS transitioned from a direct ordering process to a state/territory-coordinated distribution system.'

'HHS will determine each state and territory's weekly amount of mAb products based on COVID-19 case burden and mAb utilization.'

Moreover, U.S. NIH Guidelines published on September 3, 2021, stated the use of monoclonal antibodies when "there are logistical constraints" can prioritize unvaccinated people over those who have been vaccinated. The one exception is if the vaccinated person is immunocompromised.

To address the reduced allocations, Regeneron announced on September 14, 2021, that the HHS and the U.S. Department of Defense would purchase 1.4 million additional doses of REGEN-COV.

New York-based Regeneron collaborates with Roche to increase the global supply of REGEN-COV2. Regeneron is responsible for developing and distributing the treatment in the USA, while Roche is primarily responsible for opportunities outside the USA.

REGEN-COV can be administered by intravenous infusion (as short as 20 minutes) or subcutaneous injection (4 injections). In addition, on August 10, 2020, the U.S. FDA confirmed REGEN-COV2 use as post-exposure prophylaxis for adults and pediatric individuals (12 years of age and older, weighing at least 40 kg). And for those who require repeat dosing for ongoing exposure, REGEN-COV can also be administered monthly.

Note: Texas Governor Abbott confirmed on August 17, 2021, he was receiving Regeneron's monoclonal antibody treatment. "Governor Abbott is fully vaccinated against COVID-19, in good health, and currently experiencing no symptoms," stated a press release.