This is what the Government of Navarra says on its website. The objective of the trial is to assess the efficacy and safety of this anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic drug in severely ill patients affected by COVID-19.

The tests will be performed on a sample of 180 patients

The clinical examination will be carried out in a total of ten hospitals in seven autonomous communities throughout the Spanish State. In the sample, composed of 180 patients, it will be tested if it reduces severe pneumonia and inflammatory response caused by SARS-CoV-2. According to data from participating hospitals, about 20% of patients with COVID-19 develop this syndrome.

The research is supported by the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI), the Group of Systemic Autoimmune Diseases (GEAS). In Europe, a similar examination has only been authorised in Italy.

Research Patricia Fanlo, specialist in Internal Medicine at NOG, sees the treatment positive: “In the previous study with some patients, after the administration of the anacin, a decrease in the severity of the patient’s symptoms is observed between 48 and 72 hours later.”

Avoid inflammation from excess immune response

According to information provided by the Government of Navarra, anachine treatment blocks proinflammatory cytoin (IL-1) that is released in infectious and inflammatory processes. Anachine is usually given in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and autoinflammatory diseases. The IL-1 blockade can inhibit the inflammation caused by the excess immune response that some patients with COVID-19 suffer, preventing them from evolving into more serious situations that require mechanical ventilation or access to the ICU.

The trial will also allow the determination of additional data such as reduction of viral load, mortality 28 days after drug administration, ICU stay, hospital admission and time to discharge.