Methylprednisolone added to tocilizumab reduces mortality in SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia: An observational study.

Although there are few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of drugs to treat COVID-19, different molecules have been used empirically and with great interest in those intended to control the excessive inflammatory response produced by SARS-CoV-2. By blocking the IL-6 receptor, tocilizumab has a role in controlling the inflammatory response. Clinical improvement of respiratory parameters and hospital stay have been described in small series in a series of patients without a control group [1]. There are currently numerous ongoing clinical trials aimed to clarifying the role of this molecule in COVID-19. The guidelines for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia from the Spanish Ministry of Health contemplate the use of tocilizumab as a therapeutic tool for those patients with severe respiratory failure or rapid respiratory deterioration with criteria for admission to the intensive care unit (ICU).