Drug Dexamethasone found to cut death rates among critical Covid-19 patients
Part of: GS-Prelims and GS-II – Health; GS-III – Science & Technology (Developments of & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life)
In News:
Researchers leading a major clinical trial in the UK recently announced that the drug dexamethasone had been found to reduce death rates by one-third in the most severely ill Covid-19 patients.
Important value additions
Dexamethasone
It is a corticosteroid, an easily available medicine.
It 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.
It is used when there is any inflammation in the body due to infection or injury.
It has been used for years by sportspersons to hasten their rehabilitation from injuries and recover from infections.
It is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA’s) list of prohibited substances.
Athletes are, however, barred from using dexamethasone only during competition.
It will not be considered a doping offence if it is detected prior to a competition.
