Japan eyes COVID antibody cocktail for homebound patients

Health ministry weighs care options outside hospitals amid bed shortage

20210824N Regenron sign

The antibody treatment developed by U.S. company Regeneron was used to treat former President Trump. © Reuters

SHUNSUKE USHIGOME, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Japan's health ministry is working to approve at-home use of the COVID-19 antibody cocktail available to inpatients, as the country's surge in new cases forces many hospitals to reserve beds only for the sickest.

The treatment, developed by U.S.-based Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, is believed to reduce the risk of severe symptoms and death by 70%. The medication is geared toward patients with mild to moderate symptoms, and it is largely administered via IV drip to high-risk groups like the elderly and those with preexisting conditions.

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