Antibody cocktail out in market at ₹59,000 per dose

NEW DELHI: Roche India’s antibody cocktail is now available in market to treat coronavirus disease patients, the Pharma giant announced on Monday, adding that the cost per patient dose will be ₹59,750.

Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses. Casirivimab and imdevimab are monoclonal antibodies that are specifically directed against the spike protein of SARSCoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, and are designed to block the virus’ attachment and entry into human cells.

The first batch of antibody cocktail, Casirivimab and Imdevimab, is now available in India while a second batch will be made available by mid-June.

“Roche is deeply committed to support the ongoing efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic, mitigate the deadly second wave and save lives. We are optimistic that the availability of Antibody Cocktail (Casirivimab and Imdevimab) in India can help in minimising hospitalisation, ease the burden on healthcare systems and play a key role in treatment of high risk patients before their condition worsens,” said V Simpson Emmanuel, managing director and CEO, Roche Pharma India.

Each of the 100,000 packs to be available in India offers treatment for two patients.

Cipla will distribute the product across the country. According to the company statement, the drug will be available through leading hospitals and Covid-19 treatment centres. “We are guided by our strong sense of responsibility to address unmet patient needs and look forward to leveraging our solid marketing and distribution strengths in India...,” said Umang Vohra, MD & Global CEO, Cipla.

It is to be administered to mild to moderate Covid-19 patients who are 12 years of age or older, weigh at least 40 kg.