On May 24, Roche India and Cipla launched the COVID-19 antibody cocktail Casirivimab and Imdevimab in India. As per the reports, it will be available immediately and its second batch will be available by mid-June. As per the announcement, 100,000 packs will be available in India by the time and each pack of antibody cocktails will offer the treatment for two patients.

Reportedly, the price for each patient dose which is a combined dose of 1200 mg (600 mg of Casirivimab and 600 mg of Imdevimab) will be Rs 59,750 inclusive of all taxes. Whereas, the maximum retail price for the multi-dose pack is Rs 1,19,500 inclusive of all taxes. Cipla will distribute the drug across the country and it will be available in leading hospitals and COVID treatment centers.

Casirivimab and Imdevimab cocktails are supposed to be used for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in 12 years of age or older. The antibody cocktail is best for those who are confirmed to be infected with SARS-COV2. The primary function of this drug is to help high-risk patients before their condition worsens. As it will reduce the risk of hospitalization and fatality by 70 percent and shortening the duration of symptoms by the fourth day.

"Roche is deeply committed to support the ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, mitigate the deadly second wave and save lives. We are optimistic that the availability of Antibody Cocktail (Casirivimab and Imdevimab) in India can help in minimizing hospitalisation, ease the burden on healthcare systems and play a key role in treatment of high risk patients before their condition worsens," said V. Simpson Emmanuel, Managing Director and CEO, Roche Pharma India.

Umang Vohra, MD & Global CEO Cipla said in a statement, "We are guided by our strong sense of responsibility to address unmet patient needs and look forward to leveraging our solid marketing and distribution strengths in India to provide broader, equitable access to this innovative treatment option in the country."

According to the medical experts, Casirivimab and Imdevimab are monoclonal antibodies that are specifically directed against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, designed to block the virus' attachment and entry into human cells. Well, human immunoglobulin G-1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibodies are produced by recombinant DNA technology and strengthen the immune system to fight viruses.