STAT+: Pharmalittle: U.S. health officials seek more use of Covid-19 antibody drugs; Pfizer to reduce vaccine supplies to Europe

Good morning, everyone, and welcome to another working week. We hope the weekend respite was somehow relaxing and invigorating, despite the challenges circulating the globe. On a personal note, we received sad news that our colleague, the accomplished and indefatigable science writer Sharon Begley, passed away . We will drink a cup or more of stimulation this morning in her memory. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits to get the day started. After all, the world keeps spinning. Hope all goes well, and stay safe — wear a mask. …
U.S. health officials are pleading for more use of Covid-19 antibody therapies from Eli Lilly ( LLY ) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals ( REGN ) that have been plagued by logistical issues, lack of efficacy data, and insufficient reimbursement , Bloomberg News reports. The drugs, which were touted by President Trump and once feared to be subject to rationing because of demand, have instead been underused. As little as 5% of the supply available was being used in some areas in December, and utilization is now about 20% to 25% of regimens distributed to states. Continue to STAT+ to read the full story…