WHO Recommends Use of Arthritis Drug 'Baricitinib' for Severe and Critical COVID-19 Patients

GDG Research Results: Increased Patient Survival Probability and Decreased Need for Respiratory Support

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Hye-young] The World Health Organization (WHO) advisory panel has recommended the use of the arthritis drug Baricitinib as a treatment for severe and critical COVID-19 patients.

The WHO Guideline Development Group (GDG) stated in an article published on the 13th (local time) in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) that evidence with moderate certainty shows that Baricitinib increases the survival chances of patients and reduces the need for respiratory support.

The GDG strongly recommended using Baricitinib together with the anti-inflammatory corticosteroids.

The GDG also reported that another arthritis drug, interleukin-6 inhibitors, showed similar efficacy to Baricitinib.

The GDG advised that if both drugs are available, one should be selected based on cost, availability, and clinical experience.

However, the GDG cautioned against using Baricitinib and interleukin-6 inhibitors simultaneously. They also added that Ruxolitinib and Tofacitinib should not be used for severe and critical COVID-19 patients.

Additionally, the GDG recommended the use of the monoclonal antibody treatment Sotrovimab for non-severe COVID-19 patients. However, the GDG advised that this drug should only be used for patients at very high risk of hospitalization.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.