Since the spring physicians have been discovering optimal treatments for COVID-19 symptoms. Dr. Nicole Ezer, a researcher with the RI-MUHC’s RESP Program, was interviewed on this subject on CJAD. Dr. Ezer explained:
Initially it was very challenging to know how to treat patients appropriately, in particular patients who presented in the emergency room and required lots of oxygen.
Dr. Nicole Ezer
Since the spring the medical community has learned a lot about this virus, thanks in part to the many publications that have come out.
The names of medications which have been found best to help hospitalized patients include the steroid dexamethasone and the antiviral remdesivir. These two medications have been very helpful in not only reducing the amount of time patients spend in hospital, but also the number of deaths caused by this virus. These were important discoveries for the medical community.
The focus remains on finding treatments to help patients with less severe symptoms. To this end, all residents of Quebec experiencing milder COVID-19 symptoms are encouraged to take part in an ongoing study at the MUHC called contain-covid19.com. No in-person visits are required. After acceptance into the trial participants will receive their medication by mail. All communications are done remotely. This is one way we can all be involved in the hunt for treatments for COVID-19.
Listen to Dr. Ezer’s interview
What have doctors learned about treating COVID-19 patients? on the Aaron Rand Show, CJAD.