Observational Study of COVID-19 Treatment Efficacy

Background:

Several studies have indicated a potential role for Hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19 as caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Hydroxychloroquine has demonstrated potent inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. Hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin together have significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2 viral carriage over 6 days compared to a placebo and COVID-19 patients who received a 5 day regimen of 400mg/day of Hydroxychloroquine had significantly shortened times to clinical recovery characterized by improved pneumonia compared with patients who did not receive Hydroxychloroquine.

Within OSF Healthcare approximately 50% of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients are currently receiving some form of Hydroxychloroquine during the course of their hospitalization. The utilization of this treatment has been approved by the FDA based upon the limited data available.

Significance:

The optimal treatment regimen for COVID-19 patients has yet to be defined. Several small studies have indicated a potential role for the utilization of Hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. However, very little evidence exists around the optimal treatment regimen and efficacy with regard to tangible outcomes. This observational retrospective/prospective chart review study aims to help provide epidemiological data that may help to provide guidance to clinicians for both future patients, as well as provide clinicians guidance for study design of more definitive controlled studies. Given the rapid spread of this disease, the high mortality rate associated with it and the impact of the disease upon society this study is anticipated to have the potential to contribute significantly to the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients.