Tixagevimab (also known as ARGX-115) is a monoclonal antibody designed to target a particular protein, TGF-beta, which is involved in the regulation of the immune system. It is being developed by Argenx, a biotechnology company, as a potential treatment for certain autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. Tixagevimab is intended to block TGF-beta to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Clinical trials are ongoing to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of this medicine.
Tixagevimab is not typically used alone but rather in combination with another medication called cilgavimab. Together, they are sold under the brand name Evusheld. Here's what you need to know about Tixagevimab as part of Evusheld:
Function: Evusheld (tixagevimab/cilgavimab) is a monoclonal antibody combination for pre-exposure prophylaxis (prevention) of COVID-19 [1, 2].
How it Works: Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins designed to mimic the immune system's ability to fight specific antigens (foreign substances). Evusheld targets the spike protein on the SARS-CoV-2 virus (the virus that causes COVID-19) [1, 2]. By binding to the spike protein, Evusheld can help prevent the virus from entering and infecting healthy cells.
Medical Use: Evusheld is approved for use in adults and adolescents (12 years and older, weighing at least 40 kg) for the following purposes [2, 3]:
- Prevention of COVID-19: In people who are unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or who may have a weakened immune response to the vaccine.
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis: To help prevent COVID-19 infection in those at high risk of exposure or severe illness.
Administration: Evusheld is administered as two separate intramuscular (IM) injections, one in each buttock, at the same time [3].
Important Considerations:
- Evusheld is not a substitute for vaccination. Vaccination remains the primary strategy for preventing COVID-19 [2].
- It's not for treating active COVID-19 infection and should not be used by people who have currently been exposed to the virus [2].
- Evusheld can cause side effects, including injection site reactions, headache, fatigue, fever, or chills [3].
- It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before receiving Evusheld to determine if it's suitable for you, considering your medical history and current health status [3].