Drugs used in Covid-19 treatment: What works (and does not) in Covid treatment?

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the world by storm, causing millions of deaths and leaving many more struggling with the disease. Researchers and medical professionals have been tirelessly working to find effective treatments for COVID-19, and many drugs have been used in the treatment of the disease. In this article, we will discuss what works and what does not work in the treatment of COVID-19.

• Remdesivir

Remdesivir is an antiviral drug that has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use in treating COVID-19. Remdesivir has been shown to reduce the duration of hospitalization and improve the recovery time of patients with COVID-19. However, it is important to note that remdesivir has not been shown to significantly reduce mortality rates in patients with COVID-19.

• Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. In a clinical trial, dexamethasone was found to reduce the mortality rate of patients with severe COVID-19. However, it is important to note that dexamethasone should not be used in patients with mild or moderate COVID-19, as it may actually worsen their condition.

• Hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine is an anti-malaria drug that has been widely debated for its use in treating COVID-19. However, several studies have shown that hydroxychloroquine is not effective in treating COVID-19 and may even cause harm to patients. Therefore, the FDA has revoked the emergency use authorization for hydroxychloroquine in treating COVID-19.

• Convalescent plasma

Convalescent plasma is a treatment in which blood plasma is taken from people who have recovered from COVID-19 and given to patients with severe COVID-19. The plasma contains antibodies that may help the patient fight the virus. While some studies have shown that convalescent plasma may be effective in treating COVID-19, others have shown no significant benefits. Therefore, the use of convalescent plasma in treating COVID-19 is still under investigation.

• Tocilizumab

Tocilizumab is a drug that is used to treat inflammation in the body. In a clinical trial, tocilizumab was found to reduce the mortality rate of patients with severe COVID-19. However, it is important to note that Tocilizumab should not be used in patients with mild or moderate COVID-19, as it may actually worsen their condition.

In conclusion, the treatment of COVID-19 is still a work in progress, and researchers and medical professionals are constantly evaluating new drugs and treatments. While some drugs have shown promising results in treating COVID-19, others have been found to be ineffective or even harmful. It is important to follow the advice of medical professionals and to rely on evidence-based treatments in the fight against COVID-19.