GSK-Vir COVID-19 antibody works as shot in the arm as well as infusion – Reuters

A GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) logo is seen at the GSK research centre in Stevenage, Britain November 26, 2019. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls/File Photo

Nov 12 (Reuters) - Britain's GSK (GSK.L) and partner Vir (VIR.O) said on Friday their antibody-based COVID-19 drug was shown in a trial to work as well when given as a shot in the arm awhen administered via the standard infusion, potentially offering more convenience.

GSK said it would now speak to global regulators, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, about potential approval for the new method of administration, known as intramuscular injection, which can be carried out by family doctors and spare patients a trip to hospital.

Sotrovimab is authorised for emergency use in the United States to prevent mild or moderate cases of COVID-19 from worsening. The European Medicines Agency has given its go-ahead for use by member states though EU-wide approval is still outstanding.

Similar products are offered or being developed by Eli Lilly (LLY.N), Regeneron (REGN.O) and AstraZeneca (AZN.L). read more

Eli Lilly's therapy is so far given by infusion, or drip, only. AstraZeneca's antibody drug, under review to possibly prevent infections, is delivered by intramuscular shot only. Regeneron (REGN.O) and Roche's (ROG.S) product can be given as an infusion or injection under the skin, typically in the abdomen.

Reporting by Ludwig BurgerReporting by Ludwig Burger ind Frankfurt, Muhammed Husain and Pushkala Aripaka in Bengaluru Editing by Shinjini Ganguli and Mark Potter

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GSK-Vir COVID-19 antibody works as shot in the arm as well as infusion - Reuters