ASPR pauses distribution of bamlanivimab and etesevimab in R.I. due to variant

Rhode Island health care providers may no longer order the monoclonal antibodies bamlanivimab and etesevimab until further notice due to rising prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 P.1 and B.1.351 variants, which are not susceptible to the combination therapy, the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response announced today.

ASPR also continues to suspend distribution of bamlanivimab and etesevimab in Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Oregon and Washington due to spread of one or both of these variants in those states.

The Food and Drug Administration recommends providers in R.I. and these other states use the alternative monoclonal antibody therapies REGEN-COV or sotrovimab, which are likely to remain active against these variants, ASPR said. The announcement does not affect other states, but providers should monitor the frequency of the P.1 and B.1.351 variants in their region and review the fact sheets for each authorized monoclonal antibody therapy for details regarding specific variants and resistance, ASPR said.