Inhaled Heparin Shows Promise in Reducing Ventilation Needs and Mortality in Severe COVID-19 Cases
Inhaled heparin has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the need for ventilation and lowering mortality rates among severe COVID-19 patients, offering a promising treatment avenue for respiratory infections.
Recent research led by King's College London and the Australian National University highlights the potential of inhaled heparin as an effective treatment for severe COVID-19. The study analyzed nearly 500 hospitalized patients across six countries, revealing that those who received inhaled heparin were 50% less likely to require mechanical ventilation and experienced a significantly lower risk of death compared to those receiving standard care.
Heparin, traditionally administered via injection to treat blood clots, was tested in an inhaled form targeting the lungs directly. Beyond its anticoagulant properties, heparin also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects, making it a versatile drug for respiratory infections. Preliminary studies indicated that inhaled heparin improved breathing and oxygen levels in COVID-19 patients.
Professor Clive Page from King's College London emphasized heparin's unique combination of effects, stating, "Inhaled heparin is anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-coagulant. The fact that it combines these properties makes it a valuable tool, especially as we prepare for future pandemics."
Though promising, further research is needed to develop this treatment for routine clinical use. Researchers believe inhaled heparin could also be beneficial against other respiratory illnesses like pneumonia caused by various viruses and bacteria. The drug's affordability and potential broad applications could make it especially useful in low-income regions.
Professor Frank van Haren from the Australian National University added that inhaled heparin could benefit immunocompromised patients, such as cancer patients, by preventing infection-related lung damage. The team is working on improved formulations of heparin suitable for inhalation.
The findings have been published in eClinicalMedicine and presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress. This innovation offers hope for new therapeutic strategies against severe respiratory infections, emphasizing the importance of repurposing existing drugs to combat emerging health crises.
Source: MedicalXpress
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