Management of Osteoarthritis During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Infectious Diseases
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common age-related joint disease, affecting over 80% of individuals over 55.
• OA patients frequently have comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which are also risk factors for severe COVID-19.
• The COVID-19 pandemic may impact treatment strategies for complex conditions like OA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze the evidence on the effects of common OA drugs on COVID-19 incidence and complications.
• To provide clinicians with a decision-making tool for managing OA patients during the ongoing pandemic.
• To assess the safety of current pharmacological approaches for OA in the context of COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on OA medications and their interaction with COVID-19.
• Critical analysis of pharmacological data regarding iatrogenic effects of OA treatments.
• Evaluation of potential negative or positive impacts of OA drugs on COVID-19 outcomes.

Main Results:

• Common OA treatments (NSAIDs, corticosteroids, etc.) have iatrogenic effects that may increase COVID-19 secondary infection risk or complications.
• The interplay between OA, its treatments, and COVID-19 severity requires careful consideration.
• Evidence on the specific impact of OA drugs on COVID-19 outcomes is still evolving.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the safety profile of OA medications is crucial for patient management during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• This review offers insights for orthopedic surgeons, physicians, and pharmacologists to optimize OA treatment strategies.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions between OA, its treatments, and COVID-19.