For the first time since the coronavirus outbreak, a drug has been discovered that clearly cuts the likelihood of death from the disease known as CoVid-19.
In a landmark study carried out by Oxford University, it was discovered that the drug dexamethasone, a common and safe steroid, cut the likelihood of deaths of those on ventilators by 35%. It also cut the risk of death from those in hospital and on oxygen by 20%.
This is the most important trial result for COVID-19 so far. Significiant reduction in mortality in those requiring oxygen or ventilation from a widely available, safe and well known drug. Many thanks to those who took part and made it happen. It will save lives around the world. https://t.co/zRIaHulHOe
— Professor Chris Whitty (@CMO_England) June 16, 2020
Dexamethasone is a widely used steroid and has been in use for over 60 years. While other drug trials have been undertaken with some showing promise, this is the first one that categorically shows a lowering of mortality for those that received it.
The study involved monitoring thousands of patients suffering from CoVid-19 in hospitals in England. 2,104 were given dexamethasone while 4,321 received normal care. Those who received the drug faired much better on average. Allowing researchers to declare the findings as 'statistically significant'.
The U.K.'s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said:
"This is a ground-breaking development in our fight against the disease, and the speed at which researchers have progressed finding an effective treatment is truly remarkable."
He also said the drug would now be made immediately available to all patients who required it.
What is really pleasing about the dexamethasone findings is that unlike other trial drugs, or drugs that are new creations, the safety and efficacy of dexamethasone is well documented.
It is also very cheap – a packet coming in at only £5 (roughly $6 US). This means that it may even be possible for it to go into use in poorer countries facing the brunt of the coronavirus outbreak.
Alex Guerrero, 45, from London, spent two weeks in intensive care in Leicester, England, but has now recovered after his wife gave permission for him to be part of the drug trial. He said:
"I will never know whether it was the drug that saved my life but I know that I had the drug from my notes. It's very strange to think that I could be one of the people who survived because of it. My wife actually said I would be part of the trial, she gave permission. When she was asked my condition was very bad and there had been some very dark days. She wanted to do anything that would improve my chances but also that would help other people. At the time I was very poorly and no one knew how things were going to go. I'm very grateful she agreed, it could have saved my life. It certainly improved my chances and has improved the chances of other people too."
A number of other drugs are now in trials across the world and it is hoped that a vaccine will be available later this year. We salute all the scientists and healthcare workers still battling this terrible disease that has now likely infected tens-of-millions worldwide and killed at least 440,000.
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