The end of the covid pandemic is not yet in sight despite increased immunity of the population through vaccinations or previous infections. Knowledge about treating COVID-19 has increased and dexamethasone is now part of standard treatment in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19.
baricitinib
Baricitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor that has been registered for rheumatoid arthritis, among other things, is now also used in the treatment of seriously ill Covid patients. Research shows that this drug is moderately effective in these patients. Does Baricitinib already deserve a permanent place in the treatment of seriously ill covid patients?
Ge-Bu position
What is the position of the Ge-Bu?
• A meta-analysis shows that adding the janus kinase inhibitor baricitinib to standard treatment for COVID-19 significantly reduces mortality at 28 days compared to placebo with a treatment needed number (NNT) of 49.
• Baricitinib is not yet included in the Dutch Covid guideline from the Antibiotic Policy Working Group (SWAB) foundation, but it is in the guidelines in the United States and the United Kingdom.
• Baricitinib can be used in patients with severe covid, but further research should show for which combination of agents covid baricitinib is most effective.
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