Regeneron drug cuts deaths in hospitalized patients

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A COVID-19 drug developed by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Roche reduced the mortality rate in hospitalized patients.

That’s according to a British study which said Wednesday their REGEN-COV antibody therapy reduced by a fifth the risk of death of hospitalized patients who had not produced antibodies. The trial’s chief investigator said it also shortened their hospital stay and reduced their chances of needing a ventilator.

The drug had no discernible effect on those who had generated antibodies to the virus.

REGEN-COV has been permitted for emergency use in the U.S. for people with milder COVID-19. But the results announced Wednesday provide clear proof of its effectiveness among hospitalized patients.

Regeneron's therapy mimics natural antibodies the body produces to fight off the infection. The investigator said it’s the first treatment that actually targets the virus itself. He said it could also be used along with other treatments.

Shares of Regeneron and Roche rose in early trading Wednesday.