Two types of anthrax antitoxin drugs to treat inhalational anthrax are being added to the Strategic National Stockpile, according to HHS.
Anthim is a monoclonal antibody that binds to a key bacterial protein and reduces anthrax’s toxic effects. Through a $44.9 million agreement with the manufacturer, Anthim becomes the fourteenth product added to the stockpile since 2004.
The second drug, raxibacumab, is replacing expiring doses. Raxibacumab, also a monoclonal antibody, was the first anthrax antitoxin approved by the FDA. The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority of the HHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response is providing $9.7 million to ensure a supply of raxibacumab through 2019.
