9th Oct 2020 21:50
(Alliance News) - AstraZeneca PLC late Friday said its long-acting Covid-19 antibody has moved to Phase III clinical trials.
The drugmaker, also developing a potential Covid-19 vaccine alongside Oxford University, said two trials of AZD7442 will enrol over 6,000 adults.
One trial of 5,000 participants will probe the efficacy of AZD7442, while another of 1,000 will evaluate post-exposure prophylaxis, meaning prevention.
"The long-acting antibodies have been engineered with AstraZeneca's proprietary half-life extension technology to increase the durability of the therapy for six to 12 months following a single administration. The combination of two LAABs is also designed to reduce the risk of resistance developed by the SARS-CoV-2 virus," Astra added.
"The company has received support of around USD486 million from the US Government for the development and supply of AZD7442 under an agreement with the Biomedical Advanced Research & Development Authority."
Astra said it plans to supply 100,000 doses towards the end of 2020, with the US government also being able to acquire up to one million more in 2021.
Astra shares closed 0.6% higher at 8,424.00 pence each in London on Friday.
By Eric Cunha; [email protected]
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