Bamlanivimab Injection Info Sheet
Brand Names: Bamlanivimab 700mg/20mL Solution for Injection
What is this medicine?
Bamlanivimab is an anti-viral medicine. It is used to treat COVID-19. It will not work for colds or other viral infections.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made it available for emergency use during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is called “Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)”. Bamlanivimab has not had the same type of review as an FDA-approved or cleared product.
How is this medicine given?
You will get bamlanivimab through an intravenous (IV) infusion into your vein. A health care professional will give you this medicine while you are in the hospital or health care center. It is given over the course of 1 hour.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years of age for selected conditions, precautions are needed.
How many doses of this medicine will I need?
You will only need 1 dose of this medicine.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
Tell your health care provider about all of your medical conditions, including:
- If you have any allergies
- If you have had an unusual or allergic reaction to bamlanivimab in the past
- If you have had any usual or allergic reactions to other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- If you have liver disease or other chronic illnesses or conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, etc.)
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed
- If you are taking any other medicines (prescription, over the counter, vitamins or herbal products)
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Let your health care team know right away if you have any of the following side effects or symptoms of an allergic reaction (during or after IV infusion):
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Low blood pressure
- Wheezing
- Skin rash, itching or hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Muscle aches
- Dizziness
The following side effects may occur at the IV site:
- Pain or discomfort
- Bleeding
- Bruising of the skin
- Soreness
- Swelling
- Infection
This list of possible side effects of bamlanivimab is not complete. Please note that since this medicine is still being studied, serious and unexpected side effects may happen. Please talk to your health care team if you have any concerns or questions.
What may interact with this medicine?
Interactions with food, drink or other drugs are not expected after taking bamlanivimab.
What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
There is still a lot unknown about the possible effects of bamlanivimab on pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. For a mother and her unborn baby, the benefit of receiving bamlanivimab may be greater than the risk from the treatment. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss your options and specific situation with your health care team.
Important Note:
You should continue to take safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 after receiving this medicine. These precautions include:
- Maintaining social distance (at least 6 feet apart) when around others
- Wearing a face mask when unable to practice social distancing
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based (at least 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer
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© 2021 NYU Langone Health. All rights reserved. Reviewed for health literacy. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care provider's instructions.