Dexamethasone proves first life-saving drug

United Kingdom’s experts reported that the low-dose steroid treatment dexamethasone is a major breakthrough in the fight against the deadly virus. The drug is part of the world’s biggest trial testing existing treatments to see if they also work for coronavirus.

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Key-Points:

The drug is part of the world’s biggest trial testing existing treatments.

The drug is used when there is any inflammation in the body due to infection or injury.

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid, an easily available medicine that prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. Its effects are frequently seen within a day, and last for about three days.

The low-cost, anti-inflammatory steroid is well known in the world of sport. Dexamethasone has been used for years by sportspersons to hasten their rehabilitation from injuries and recover from infections.

The drug is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA’s) list of prohibited substances. Athletes are, however, barred from using dexamethasone only during competition — meaning, if the substance is detected prior to a competition, it will not be considered a doping offence.

It is the first drug to be shown to improve survival in the pandemic was hailed by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson as “the biggest breakthrough yet” in the fight against the novel coronavirus.

Dexamethasone does not appear to help people with milder symptoms of coronavirus who do not need help with their breathing.