Anti-inflammatory drugs can make coronavirus infection worse
Taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and cortisone can worsen the infection in people who have become ill with the new coronavirus.
A study published in ‘The Lancet’ shows that these types of drugs increase the number of ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme ed.) receptors. The virus could enter human cells more quickly in this way.
“Consequently, the increased expression of ACE2 would facilitate infection with COVID-19. We, therefore, hypothesize that diabetes and hypertension treatment with ACE2-stimulating drugs increases the risk of developing severe and fatal COVID-19,” the researchers revealed.
If this hypothesis were to be confirmed, “it could lead to a conflict regarding treatment because ACE2 reduces inflammation and has been suggested as a potential new therapy for inflammatory lung diseases, cancer, diabetes, and hypertension”.
French doctors say that a few younger patients without a medical history have ended up in intensive care. They would have taken anti-inflammatory drugs early in their illness. French Minister of Health recommends taking paracetamol in case of fever. Anyone who already takes anti-inflammatory drugs or has doubts should consult a doctor, according to the minister.
