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NewsHealthLeading scientists believe 'hyperinflammation' drugs could help with worst cases of the virus

Sunday, 15th March 2020, 6:50 pm

Existing drugs for rheumatoid arthritis and cases of excessive inflammation could be used to treat some of the most severe cases of coronavirus, leading scientists say.

A recent study into coronavirus deaths in China suggested that many of the fatalities were caused by an overactive immune response in the body that was triggered by the virus - rather than by the virus itself.

This suggests that existing drugs designed to suppress these kind of overreactions in the immune system - known as 'hyperinflammation' or cytokine storms - have the potential to significantly reduce casualties from Covid-19.

However, clinical trials are needed to confirm whether these drugs are an effective coronavirus treatment, according to a panel of scientists and clinicians researching the issue.

Screen worst-hit patient

The researchers recommend that all patients who are suffering badly from coronavirus be screened for hyperinflammation with a blood test - and given steroids or other approved drugs if they are found to have it.

Deaths from Covid-19 are rising and there is an urgent need for effective treatment. We recommend identification and treatment of hyperinflammation using existing, approved therapies with proven safety profiles to address the immediate need to reduce the rising mortality, Puja Mehta, of University College London, told i.

Improving awareness of the risk of hyperinflammation and treating patients with immunosuppression therapies is likely to be important in the pandemic, she said.

"Deaths from Covid-19 are rising and there is an urgent need for effective treatment,"

Puja Mehta

Dr Mehta was speaking on behalf of a collaboration of five hyperinflammation experts from universities and hospitals across the UK. They have written an article for The Lancet journal, seen by i, outlining their case.

Immunosuppressants such as the rheumatoid arthritis treatment Actemra, anti-inflammatory 'cortico' steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin blood treatments are used to dampen the immune response and save lives.

Study of Chinese cases

A recent study into 150 cases of Covid-19 cases in China found a link between fatal cases of coronavirus and cytokine storms.

It is recognised that some patients with severe Covid-19 may have hyperinflammation which can be picked up by blood tests.

Where hyperinflammation is shown this is associated with severe coronavirus symptoms and may predict death, Dr Mehta said.

During a cytokine storm, an excessive immune response ravages healthy lung tissue, leading to acute respiratory distress and multi-organ failure. Untreated, cytokine storm syndrome is usually fatal.

Trial of arthritis treatment

Chinese authorities have approved the use of the Actemra rheumatoid arthritis treatment for lung damage arising from coronavirus.

Meanwhile, Chinese researchers have started a trial to assess the safety and effectiveness of using the drug in coronavirus patients with cytokine release syndrome.

Here is the original post:
Existing drugs may have a key role to play in coronavirus treatment - inews

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