Novartis, Incyte to test Jakavi for coronavirus-linked cytokine storm

Novartis and Incyte are planning to launch a clinical study to test the potential of Jakavi (ruxolitinib) in patients with COVID-19 associated cytokine storm, a type of severe immune overreaction that can result from the infection and may contribute to respiratory compromise in some patients.

According to the Swiss drugmaker, preclinical and preliminary clinical evidence suggests that the JAK inhibitor could reduce the number of patients requiring intensive care and mechanical ventilation.

The proposed trial will assess Jakavi in combination with standard of care (SoC) therapy, compared to SoC therapy alone, in patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia as a result of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Given the rapid spread of the pandemic, and as plans for the study are finalised, Novartis has established an international compassionate use programme for eligible patients, subject to local regulations.

The firm said it is also taking steps to manage the anticipated increase in COVID-19 related requests for Jakavi without interrupting access for patients taking the drug for its licensed indications.

"The potential that Jakavi could lead to faster recovery times for COVID-19 patients with fewer requiring intensive care and mechanical ventilation is encouraging and absolutely merits further investigation," said John Tsai, head of Global Drug Development and chief medical officer at Novartis.

"We now are moving rapidly to finalise the study plan and then to enroll eligible patients, as well as put in place a process to provide access for patients unable to participate in the trial."

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