Plasma theraphy no longer part of Covid-19 treatment: ICMR

May 17: The use of convalescent plasma (plasma therapy) has been dropped from the recommended treatment protocols for COVID-19, according to the latest guidelines released by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Monday. Convalescent plasma therapy uses a blood component called plasma rich in virus-fighting antibodies from recovered Covid-19 patients to aid the immune system in fighting off the infection.

Previous guidelines recommended plasma therapy within seven days of the onset of symptoms. The decision was taken as the treatment was not found beneficial in reducing the progression to severe disease or death. The revised guidelines jointly issued by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-Covid-19 National Task Force, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, and Union ministry of health and family welfare, do not mention the use of convalescent plasma therapy.