New treatment alternatives for COVID-19

The treatment against COVID-19 continues to be the subject of studies and constant modifications. As the pandemic progresses, new and effective ways to deal with the disease are discovered.

On this occasion, the WHO (World Health Organization) ruled on the matter of two drugs. Both Baricitinib and Sotrovimab were added to the list for the therapeutic approach.

Baricitinib: an old acquaintance

Known by its trade name Olumiant, it is an old drug known to the medical community. It is one of the treatments used to control rheumatoid arthritis primarily.

Regarding its mechanism of action, it prevents the plasmatic activity of the enzyme JAK (Janus Kinase). As a result, and basically, it triggers a series of biochemical processes that result in a strong anti-inflammatory and regulatory response of the immune system.

Medical uses backed by science

Baricitinib was approved in 2017 by the European Union for use in rheumatoid arthritis. However, premise was only allowed as a second-line treatment in moderate to severe cases.

Later, in 2018, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) sequenced the results postulated by the European Union.

Given this, he added that said drug can be administered in moderate to severe cases without response to previous treatment in rheumatoid arthritis.

For its part, in 2022, the WHO successfully declared that it is included in the therapy against COVID-19. Due to the results of the trials, a good response to Baricitinib was confirmed. It was able to regulate the exaggerated immune response caused by the pandemic virus.

Adverse effects described to date

Being a drug that modulates the immune response of the individual, it is logical that its adverse effects are related to it.

In essence, a scenario is generated where the patient is more prone to viral, bacterial, parasitic or fungal (fungal) infections.

Paradoxically, complications related to the respiratory tract were described, but all were controlled without incident. Some classic gastrointestinal manifestations such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea are also mentioned.

It is worth noting that such clinical signs and symptoms only occurred in less than 10% of cases. Starting from that point, the balance between risk / benefit leans more towards the positive side.

Sotrovimab: a viable alternative

Sotrovimab is the name given to an experimental drug to prevent severe coronavirus disease. Like Baricitinib, it was added to the list of safe and effective treatments against the virus.

Despite its experimental label, it is still supported by the FDA after several serial studies.

Structurally, it is defined as a drug based on monoclonal antibodies with a broad spectrum of action against infection by the pandemic virus.

Monoclonal antibodies are an innovative therapy developed in laboratories. A type of glycoprotein is created that acts uniquely, educating the immune system to attack a certain antigen. Although its uses are various, it basically boils down to this.

In favor of current studies and conclusions, it seems effective against the omicron variant. That is why it has begun its serial distribution to immediately treat the population at greatest risk.

Indications and timing of administration

Sotrovimab is indicated from 12 years of age onwards. Infected adults and children will be able to enjoy the privileged and therapeutic effects of the monoclonal therapy issued by this drug.

In turn, an optimal weight of more than 40 kilograms (approximately 88 pounds) is recommended. With this physical property, a lower risk of adverse reactions and greater pharmacodynamics are ensured.

On the other hand, the guidelines of the World Health Organization indicate its administration once symptoms are established. With the regular approach of this pharmaceutical drug, severe coronavirus infection will be avoided at all costs.

Complications related to its intake

The non-therapeutic effects of the drug in question have not been revealed exactly. However, it is recommended after medical consultation and for nothing in the world to give way to self-medication.

It is also not advisable to combine Sotrovimab with other treatments, especially if you already have a basic one. Similarly, absolute caution with pregnancy, breastfeeding and other special health situations.

Scientific support against COVID-19

The investigation of the "Baricitinib vs. COVID-19" case began in April 2020. There, the first steps were taken with a view to a possible treatment alternative. Overall, the drug offered strong immune modulation against the virus.

A group of WHO experts led a clinical study with more than 4,000 patients affected by the disease.

In them, the mentioned drug was administered in appropriate doses, and it was conjugated with other corticosteroids to increase its efficiency.

The acquired data showed a favorable pattern in which those involved avoided, almost 100% of the cases, mechanical ventilation. That is, they were not likely to suffer from the most severe manifestation of the new coronavirus disease.

In the same vein, the UK National Health Service (NHS) announced the success of Sotrovimab. Within a double-blind trial, it was possible to verify the benefit of the drug, specifically for patients in moderate condition.

Steven Powis in an interview with the BBC digital media declared as medical director of the NHS. In his contribution to the press, he explained that both Sotrovimab and Baricitinib have a long way to go. However, the evidence is favorable for its safe use.

Current overview of Baricitinib and Sotrovimab

In the case of Baricitinib, the outlook is complicated given its high price in its generic presentation. It belongs to the Eli Lilly laboratory, an American pharmaceutical company in charge of the patent.

The price established for each generic presentation is around $2,000 USD. Without a doubt, it is a figure that puts at risk its correct distribution to countries hit by the pandemic and with fewer resources.

For now, the US-based company has stated that it is working on collateral strategies with international partners. Hand in hand with them, he hopes to achieve a quick path of care and satisfaction for those who urgently depend on treatment.

On the Sotrovimab side, the horizon is also somewhat uncertain. Being a relatively new therapy, it will take time to be approved for marketing and distribution.

To date, only other countries such as Japan and Saudi Arabia outside the European Union have accepted its usage.

In Latin American territories, Baricitinib was only certified in Mexico for deployment against COVID-19. Otherwise, it is only sold under strict medical prescription for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.