With the Centre permitting “off-label” use of plasma therapy for patients with moderate symptoms who are not improving despite the use of steroids, the Govt has issued guidelines for convalescent plasma therapy.
The rules state COVID convalescent plasma (CCP) therapy can be used only on moderately affected patients with increasing need for oxygen. Failure of steroid therapy is not required before starting therapy. It should be done before a patient goes into multiple organ failure. Doctors must also pursue other therapies involving remdesivir.
The Govt has released the standard operating procedure for CCP, saying one or two therapeutic units of 200-250ml should be administered 24 hours apart, depending on the condition of the patient.
To attract donations, the Karnataka Govt had assured Rs 5,000 for the nutrition & care of each donor. Donors — men or women who weigh more than 50kg — in the age group of 18-60 years, should preferably have symptoms. A separate consent form with the tag “off-label” is required.
Blood banks can seek help of NGOs & the patient’s family can search for volunteers through social media. CCPs can be transferred between certified blood banks or qualified hospitals. The circular has been signed by Jawaid Akhtar, additional chief secretary, health & family welfare department.
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