New Study Shows Inhaled Heparin Effective for COVID-19 Patients
A recent international study led by the Australian National University (ANU) along with King’s College London reveals that a readily available and low-cost drug is effective in treating severely ill COVID-19 patients.
The research analyzed the data from nearly 500 hospitalized COVID-19 patients across six different countries. Findings indicated that those who inhaled heparin were about 50% less likely to require ventilation and experienced a notably lower risk of death compared to those receiving conventional care.
Heparin, typically administered via injection to manage blood clots, was tested in its inhaled form in this study, aimed at the lungs directly. Beyond its role as an anticoagulant, heparin possesses anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Previous studies had already shown improvements in breathing and oxygen levels for COVID-19 patients after inhaling heparin.
The researchers think that this drug might also be beneficial in combating other serious respiratory infections, such as pneumonia.
Professor Clive Page, Emeritus Professor of Pharmacology at King’s and co-lead of the study, remarked, “Inhaled heparin is both anti-viral and anti-inflammatory. No other drug combines these properties. Given the inevitability of future pandemics and the ongoing risk of severe COVID-19 cases, having this drug at our disposal is invaluable.”
Despite the promising results, the study emphasizes the need for further development before inhaled heparin can be routinely implemented. The researchers also suggest that it may serve as a potential treatment for various serious respiratory infections caused by different viruses and bacteria.
Professor van Haren highlighted that the drug could significantly assist individuals with weakened immune systems, like cancer patients, who may encounter respiratory infections.
Professor Frank van Haren, the lead author and Director of the Intensive Care Unit at St George Hospital in Sydney, explained, “Regardless of the type of respiratory infection, inhaling this drug can prevent it from affecting the patient and harming their lungs. We plan to conduct additional trials in Europe to confirm its effectiveness against other widespread respiratory infections, such as influenza and RSV. Its affordability makes it accessible for those in low-income countries.”
The team is also working on a refined formulation of heparin intended specifically for inhalation.
This research was published in eClinicalMedicine and presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress in Amsterdam on September 28, marking a significant event in respiratory research.
