The week started with good news
from the US Food and Drug Administration (#FDA). The federal agency issued an
“emergency use authorization” (EUA) for convalescent plasma to be used as a
treatment for hospitalized #COVID-19 cases.
According to the FDA, there is
enough scientific evidence that showed that the antibody-rich plasma “may be
effective,” and the possible benefits outweigh the potential risks. "Today’s
action follows the FDA’s extensive review of the science and data generated
over the past several months stemming from efforts to facilitate emergency
access to convalescent plasma for patients as clinical trials to definitively
demonstrate safety and efficacy remain ongoing."
This EUA will facilitate the
distribution of convalescent plasma in the States and its use by healthcare
providers.
Ahead of the presidential
elections, this is seen as a victory for the Trump administration. Related to
the subject, President #Trump is considering fast-tracking AstraZeneca’s
COVID-19 vaccine candidate. He wants it done and available to Americans before
the election.
AstraZeneca’s potential #vaccine
produced a “strong immune response” during the first two phases of clinical
trials. Currently, it has advanced to Phase
III trials.
Following the announcement, the
company's stock price rose by nearly 4%.
Sources: marketwatch.com, thestreet.com
