Baricitinib: the first immunomodulatory treatment to reduce COVID-19 mortality in a placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic treatments developed in the past century have improved survival outcomes, even in high-mortality conditions such as sepsis, a condition that is mostly caused by bacteria but can also be due to other infections. In the 21st century, of all therapies that have improved the outcomes of patients with sepsis, the appropriate and early administration of antibiotics has been shown to be the most effective therapy to save lives.1 However, despite highly effective antibiotics that can kill microorganisms causing sepsis, and cultures showing eradication of these organisms, overall mortality from the condition remains high.