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Pros and cons of corticosteroid therapy for COVID-19 patients
Paula Mattos-Silva1, Nathane Santanna Felix1, Pedro Leme Silva1
1Laboratory of Pulmonary Investigation, Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Insights
Corticosteroids may help manage COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) as a supportive treatment. This communication reviews the benefits and drawbacks of using corticosteroids for COVID-19 patients based on current evidence.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- The global emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, necessitates urgent therapeutic strategies.
- Severe pneumonia associated with COVID-19 requires effective management options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of corticosteroids as an adjunctive therapy in managing COVID-19.
- To outline the advantages and disadvantages of corticosteroid use in COVID-19 treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature and clinical evidence.
- Analysis of the pharmacological effects of corticosteroids in viral infections.
Main Results:
- Corticosteroids demonstrate potential benefits in reducing inflammation and improving outcomes in certain COVID-19 patients.
- Potential risks and contraindications associated with corticosteroid use require careful consideration.
Conclusions:
- Corticosteroids can be a valuable adjunctive therapy for managing severe COVID-19.
- Evidence supports a balanced approach, weighing benefits against risks for individual patient management.
Abstract:
In December 2019, an outbreak of severe pneumonia was reported in Wuhan, China. Later described as COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), this infection caused by a virus from the Coronaviridae family (SARS-CoV-2) has spread globally. Effective therapies for this new disease are urgently needed. In this short communication, we will evaluate the use of corticosteroids as an adjunctive pharmacological therapy in the management of COVID-19 and describe its pros and cons in light of the latest available evidence.
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