More evidence hints that hydroxychloroquine doesn’t help treat COVID-19
The malaria drug hydroxychloroquine has been touted by some, including President Trump, as nearly a miracle cure for COVID-19. But new preliminary evidence suggests that coronavirus patients fare no better on the drug than they do with standard care. Researchers in Iran examined six studies, including small studies from France and China, that had suggested the drug might slightly shorten recovery time. All six studies compared hydroxychloroquine with standard care, which may include monitoring, fluids, oxygen and other supportive care as needed. Across all studies, there were no statistically relevant differences in the outcomes of patients who took hydroxychloroquine and those who didn’t, the scientists report April 20 at medRxiv.org. Slightly more people taking the drug showed clearer lungs compared with those on standard treatment. And after taking the drug, the virus’s genetic material was also detectable in slightly fewer people than those who didn’t take the drug. But there were also more mild...