US Medical Term · medications
Monoclonal Antibody
Anticuerpo Monoclonal
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Monoclonal Antibody |
| Spanish (Español) | Anticuerpo Monoclonal |
| Chinese (中文) | 單株抗體 |
| Korean (한국어) | 단클론 항체 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Kháng thể đơn dòng |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Monoclonal Antibody |
| Portuguese (Português) | Anticorpo Monoclonal |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | โมโนโคลนอลแอนติบอดี |
| Japanese (日本語) | モノクローナル抗体 |
What it means
Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins designed to mimic the immune system's ability to target specific substances in the body. They are used to treat a wide range of conditions including cancer, autoimmune diseases, asthma, migraines, and infections. Examples include trastuzumab (Herceptin) for breast cancer, adalimumab (Humira) for rheumatoid arthritis, and dupilumab (Dupixent) for eczema. They are usually given as injections or infusions. Drug names ending in "-mab" are typically monoclonal antibodies. Infusion reactions are possible — you may be monitored for a period after administration. These are typically specialty medications and may require prior authorization from insurance.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Is this medication a monoclonal antibody and how is it given — as a shot or an infusion?
¿Este medicamento es un anticuerpo monoclonal y cómo se administra, como inyección o como infusión?
Does my insurance require prior authorization to cover this biologic medication?
¿Mi seguro requiere autorización previa para cubrir este medicamento biológico?
What side effects or infusion reactions should I watch for with this treatment?
¿Qué efectos secundarios o reacciones a la infusión debo observar con este tratamiento?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026