In order for social distancing measures to become less severe, a more effective form of treating COVID-19 needs to exist. There have been several claims made by different scientists/public figures regarding what drug might be able to treat the coronavirus. Here are a few that have been mentioned and what actual scientific evidence there is to back them. Another important method that will be integral in controlling the pandemic is the creation of a vaccine, although this is at least a year or two in the works, so for the time being, only current drugs available will be discussed.
One of the most talked-about potential drug options for COVID-19 is hydroxychloroquine. This drug, which has already been on the market for several years for the treatment of lupus and the prevention of malaria, has shown in multiple studies to block the coronavirus from entering cells. However, there is currently no proof to show that it will help treat the coronavirus in humans. Many trials are being conducted on this drug, but none have yet to produce substantial results. When asked for his opinion on whether hydroxychloroquine could be considered as a treatment option for COVID-19, leading immunologist expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, stated that “The answer is no, and the evidence that you’re talking about…is anecdotal evidence.” Thus, it’s hydroxychloroquine is a long way from being considered a treatment option for COVID-19.
Another potential drug for the treatment of COVID-19, Remdesivir, shows good potential as a treatment option. Remdesivir, which has been in the works for around a decade now, was initially created as a possible treatment for SARS and MERS, two other infectious coronaviruses that have circulated in the past. It was also thought to be effective against Ebola, although it never got brought into the market because it was not as effective as other antivirals were at treating Ebola. However, researchers hope that this drug might be more effective at treating COVID-19 and have already undergone numerous clinical trials. The results of these trials should hopefully be produced with the next few upcoming weeks.
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