May 6, 2020

Tocilizumab for the Treatment of Severe COVID-19

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Testing and Treatment

• Alattar et al. report a case series from 25 patients who had severe COVID-19 and received tocilizumab therapy, an interleukin-6 inhibitor that may ameliorate the inflammatory manifestations. During the 14 days of follow-up, tocilizumab was associated with dramatic decline in inflammatory markers, radiological improvement, and reduced ventilator support requirements. However, the majority (92%) of patients experienced at least one adverse event. Adequately powered trials are needed to confirm efficacy. 

Alattar et al. (May 5, 2020). Tocilizumab for the Treatment of Severe COVID-19. Journal of medical virology. https://doi.org/10.1002/jmv.25964