In the study, Actemra did not reduce severe respiratory symptoms, intensive care visits, or death any better than standard treatments. The trial, which enrolled 126 patients – about one third of the intended number – was stopped early after an interim analysis found insufficient evidence that the anti-inflammatory medicine was likely to be effective, researchers said in a news release. “Although not effective in all patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, it is possible that selected subgroups of patients may have a better response to the drug,” the study’s administrators said in a statement.
