Cilgavimab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus). It works by targeting B-Cell activating factor (BAFF), a protein involved in the development and activation of B cells, which are white blood cells that play a role in the body's immune system. Cilgavimab helps reduce inflammation and destruction of healthy tissue in lupus patients by blocking the action of BAFF. It is administered intravenously and has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adults with active SLE who have failed to respond to other therapies.
Cilgavimab, also known by the brand name Evusheld, is not a standalone medication but rather one half of a combination therapy used to prevent COVID-19. It's important to understand both aspects:
1. Cilgavimab itself:
- Type: Cilgavimab is a monoclonal antibody. This means it's a lab-made protein designed to mimic the immune system's natural antibodies and target a specific antigen. In this case, the antigen is the spike protein on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the virus that causes COVID-19.
- Mechanism of action: Cilgavimab binds to the spike protein, preventing the virus from entering and infecting human cells.
- Uses: Cilgavimab is not used alone to treat or prevent COVID-19. It's always combined with another monoclonal antibody called tixagevimab to form the Evusheld combination therapy.
2. Evusheld (tixagevimab/cilgavimab):
- Type: Evusheld is a combination therapy consisting of two monoclonal antibodies: cilgavimab and tixagevimab.
- Mechanism of action: Both antibodies bind to different parts of the spike protein, offering dual protection against the virus.
- Uses: Evusheld is used to prevent COVID-19 in adults and children 12 years and older who:
- Have weakened immune systems due to medical conditions or medications.
- Cannot be vaccinated due to a history of severe reactions to COVID-19 vaccines or their ingredients.
Important points to remember:
- Evusheld is not a substitute for vaccination. Vaccination remains the primary and most effective way to prevent COVID-19.
- Evusheld is administered through two separate intramuscular injections, one for each monoclonal antibody.
- It is not a treatment for COVID-19 and should not be used if you already have the infection.