Clinical Trials for Bevacizumab in COVID-19 Treatment

Current Research Status

Clinical trials are actively investigating the efficacy of bevacizumab as a treatment for COVID-19, with initial results anticipated by May 2020. The emergence and rapid proliferation of the novel coronavirus have prompted a global search for effective therapeutic options.

Other Drug Candidates

Several other drug candidates are also under examination for their potential in treating COVID-19, including remdesivir, ritonavir/lopinavir, and hydroxychloroquine. Among these, bevacizumab has garnered considerable attention.

Overview of Bevacizumab

Bevacizumab is primarily a cancer treatment utilized for various types of cancer such as colorectal, lung, breast, renal, brain, and ovarian cancers, in addition to conditions like age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. With nearly two decades of use as an anti-tumor agent, its safety profile is well established. Common side effects associated with bevacizumab include hypertension, fatigue, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Mechanism of Action

Bevacizumab is a human monoclonal antibody that functions by binding to vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). This action inhibits angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, which is critical in cancer progression.

Rationale for COVID-19 Treatment

The rationale for employing bevacizumab in COVID-19 treatment stems from research indicating heightened levels of VEGF in the blood of infected patients. It is believed that these elevated VEGF levels result from hypoxia and severe inflammation. Evidence suggests that VEGF plays a significant role in acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome, making it a key target for treatment. Previous studies indicate that VEGF suppression could alleviate pulmonary edema, potentially lowering mortality rates among patients experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms.

Ongoing Clinical Trials

An interventional clinical trial at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University in Jinan, China, is evaluating the safety and efficacy of bevacizumab in patients with severe cases of COVID-19 presenting with pneumonia and dyspnea (shortness of breath). The trial aims to enroll over 100 participants, with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2020.

Another trial, a Phase II/III study also conducted by Qilu Hospital, is an open-label, single-group trial involving 20 participants with severe COVID-19 and pneumonia. This trial is also expected to conclude by May 2020.

Advantages of Existing Treatments

Testing drugs that are already approved for other indications offers the advantage of a shortened testing phase, as their pharmacological profiles and side effects are well documented. Consequently, clinical trials can concentrate on assessing the specific effectiveness of these drugs against COVID-19.

References

– Clinical Trial – Bevacizumab in Severe or Critical Patients With COVID-19 Pneumonia-RCT – NCT04305106
– Clinical Trial – Bevacizumab in Severe or Critical Patients With COVID-19 Pneumonia (BEST-CP) – NCT04275414
– Image by Miguel Á. Padriñán from Pixabay