Monoclonal antibodies and long Covid: an expert overview

In this article below, Dr Elisa Astorri, a highly regarded consultant rheumatologist, discusses the relationship between long Covid and monoclonal antibodies.

What is long Covid?

Long Covid, a term used to describe the lingering symptoms experienced by some individuals after the acute phase of a Covid-19 infection, has become a significant health concern.

What are the symptoms of long Covid?

Symptoms of long Covid, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), can include fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and a host of other debilitating conditions that persist for weeks, months, or even longer. As researchers and healthcare providers seek effective treatments, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have emerged as a promising option.

What are monoclonal antibodies?

Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made molecules that can mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens. They are specifically designed to target and neutralise SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19. These antibodies bind to the spike protein of the virus, preventing it from entering human cells and thereby curbing infection.

What role do monoclonal antibodies play in the treatment of long Covid?

In the context of long Covid, the role of monoclonal antibodies is still under investigation. Initially, mAbs have been successfully used in treating acute Covid-19 cases, particularly in patients with mild to moderate symptoms who are at high risk for severe disease. Early administration of mAbs has shown to reduce viral load, decrease symptom severity, and prevent hospitalisation.

For long Covid patients, the potential benefit of mAbs lies in their ability to mitigate ongoing viral activity or lingering viral particles that may be contributing to chronic symptoms. Some theories suggest that persistent viral fragments or an immune system overreaction may underlie long Covid. By neutralising these viral remnants, monoclonal antibodies could potentially alleviate persistent symptoms.

Clinical trials and studies are underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibodies in treating long Covid. Researchers are optimistic but cautious, as the complexity of long Covid’s pathology means that treatment responses may vary significantly among patients.

In addition to monoclonal antibodies, comprehensive management of long Covid often includes a multi-disciplinary approach involving physical therapy, mental health support, and other symptomatic treatments. As our understanding of long Covid evolves, so too will the strategies to combat it, with monoclonal antibodies representing a hopeful avenue in the quest for effective therapies.

As with all medical treatments, it's crucial for patients to consult with healthcare providers to understand the best options based on their individual health profiles and the latest medical evidence.

To book an appointment today with Dr Elisa Astorri, head on over to her Top Doctors profile.