Baricitinib is a Janus-associated kinase (JAK) inhibitor that reduces mortality and may reduce progression to mechanical ventilation. By inhibiting JAK, the inflammatory and immunopathology response from COVID may be reduced. Unique to baricitinib is the theoretical ability to directly interfere with viral uptake into cells.
Interleukin (IL)-6 is a proinflammatory cytokine response which is induced by COVID. Tocilizumab is an IL-6 inhibitor, which helps reduce the systemic inflammation and hypoxemic respiratory failure associated with COVID.
Remdesivir and Nirmatrelvir are both antiviral agents that block viral replication.
Ritonavir is a protease inhibitor which blocks the metabolism of Nirmatrelvir, resulting in increased serum concentration of Nirmatrelvir. Ritonavir has no direct activity against COVID.
Disclaimer: The treatment guidelines provided within this app may differ slightly from the Ontario Science Table COVID-19 Clinical Practice Guideline due to ongoing drug shortages. There may appear to be further restrictions and treatment criteria than those posted on the Ontario Science Table guideline which have been agreed upon in discussions within the provincial hospital pharmacy group to best align with equitable distribution of medications.