The effect of tocilizumab on mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

This review (6 RCTs) found no statistically significant mortality benefit for tocilizumab (pooled HR 0.83 [95% CI 0.66-1.05] vs non-use); however, a benefit for the composite of requirement for mechanical ventilation and/or all-cause mortality was noted (0.62; 95% CI 0.42–0.91).

SPS commentary:

NHS trusts / health boards are recommended to consider prescribing either tocilizumab or sarilumab to hospitalised patients with COVID-19 pneumonia being treated with non-invasive ventilation (including high-flow nasal oxygen therapy or continuous positive airway pressure ventilation) or invasive mechanical ventilation, in accordance with the eligibility criteria set out in the relevant interim clinical commissioning policies.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Resource links:

Interim Clinical Commissioning Policy: Tocilizumab for critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia

Interim Clinical Commissioning Policy: Sarilumab for critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia (adults)