Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2025
![Dynamic Imaging of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells with [18F]Tetrafluoroborate Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F62334.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Dynamic Imaging of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells with [18F]Tetrafluoroborate Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography
Published on: February 17, 2022
Tocilizumab for the treatment of COVID-19
Robert Flisiak1, Marta Flisiak-Jackiewicz2, Piotr Rzymski3,4
1Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, Poland.
Introduction:
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the repurposing of medicines has been pursued to find interventions effective in preventing fatal outcome of the disease. One of these drugs was tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 inhibiting monoclonal antibody, previously used to treat several immune-related disorders.
Areas Covered:
In this article, we present the results of the initial observational studies and subsequent randomized clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of tocilizumab in the treatment of COVID-19. Despite conflicting results, possibly due to the heterogeneity of the studied populations, large studies have ultimately proven that preventing IL-6 from attaching to its receptors can effectively reverse the fatal course of the disease. We also discuss the meta-analyses, which mostly supported the validity of tocilizumab therapy. We show how tocilizumab found its place in the most important recommendations on COVID-19 treatment and obtained authorization from the major regulatory authorities.
Expert Opinion:
The criteria for optimizing tocilizumab therapy in COVID-19 still need to be established. They are also important considering the existing risks of future zoonotic spillovers and epidemics that may trigger hyperinflammation that could be efficiently blocked. The experience gained with tocilizumab shall be perceived as preparedness for future challenges.
Insights
Tocilizumab effectively reverses severe COVID-19 by blocking interleukin-6 (IL-6), demonstrating its value in treating critical illness. This medicine repurposing offers preparedness for future hyperinflammation events.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Drug repurposing is crucial for treating emerging infectious diseases like COVID-19.
- Tocilizumab, an IL-6 inhibiting monoclonal antibody, was investigated for COVID-19 treatment.
- Previous uses include immune-related disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy and safety of tocilizumab in COVID-19.
- To analyze observational studies, randomized clinical trials, and meta-analyses.
- To discuss tocilizumab's role in treatment guidelines and regulatory approvals.
Main Methods:
- Review of initial observational studies.
- Analysis of randomized clinical trials.
- Examination of meta-analyses and treatment recommendations.
Main Results:
- Large studies confirmed tocilizumab's efficacy in reversing severe COVID-19.
- Meta-analyses largely supported tocilizumab therapy.
- Tocilizumab is now included in major COVID-19 treatment guidelines and has regulatory authorization.
Conclusions:
- Tocilizumab is a validated treatment for severe COVID-19, effectively managing hyperinflammation.
- Further research is needed to optimize tocilizumab therapy criteria.
- Experience with tocilizumab enhances preparedness for future epidemics involving hyperinflammation.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Immunomodulatory Agents
01:24Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Biologic Agents: Anti-TNF
01:21Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Glucocorticoids
01:29Drugs for Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis in IBD
01:26COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...