Characterization of tofacitinib use as COVID-19 therapy

ABSTRACT

Objective: The main purpose of this study is to characterize and compare the population that received tofacitinib with those that were not treated with the drug for COVID-19 at the Clínica Unión Médica del Norte, in 2020. Methods: An observational, retrospective, cross-sectional, exploratory, and secondary source study was conducted. A comparison was made between clinical and sociodemographic characteristics, laboratory results and their treatment option. Results: Five hundred and seven patients admitted to the COVID-19 unit of the Clínica Unión Médica del Norte were included. It was determined that lower death rates were registered in the group that received tofacitinib (6.45%) compared to the group that did not use the drug. Likewise, those receiving this therapy required less mechanical ventilation, however, a higher proportion of these patients were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. In addition, a greater reduction in glycaemia was identified in the patients receiving tofacitinib, but they had higher levels of ferritin and D-dimer. Conclusions: Tofacitinib may be beneficial in terms of mortality rates and reduction in the use of mechanical ventilation. Furthermore, it is promising with respect to positive patient progression. However, our research is not conclusive. Future confirmatory research is needed on the efficacy of tofacitinib therapy for COVID-19 patients.