The Search for a Cure- Testing a Treatment for COVID-19

Dr. Cameron Wolfe, M.D., Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center discussed details within the national active research currently being conducted with hospitalized adults battling the COVID-19 Coronavirus. His answers revealed surprising details, both positive and realistic about the intravenous drug, Remdesivir.

Distinguishing the difference between this treatment and hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine drugs, he stated that the chloroquine drugs were used for the mitigation {relief} of symptoms only and the results were yet unknown. Dr. Wolfe clarified that Remdesivir targeted the DNA/ RNA molecular structure - seeking to prevent the virus from replicating inside the body. The ultimate goal is to find the correct treatment(s) and dosage(s) to serve as an antiviral.

He described all parameters of this active research trial - happening in hospitals throughout the nation - stating that the research is adaptive to the results occurring in patients being tested. Further clarifying that treatment would/could change - according to how patients were responding.

Dr. Wolfe said that researchers were also open to the addition of different drug alternatives and dosages being given to patients receiving Remdesivir, if physician researchers felt this was medically needed. The goal of this emergency level of research being to save the lives of those participating - as well as to search for a curative medical therapy for all.

He stated the research participants were selected at random. Also within the sample there are with assigned placebos being given. Dr. Wolfe stated that ALL participants would have the advantage of having their cases monitored and followed by multiple physicians to provide the best of care possible.

Dr. Wolfe further discussed many other aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including whether the public should wear masks, the present and projected testing being done, the effectiveness of testing, Human Immunity-Plasma testing & when individuals should be RE-tested. 

He discussed the present outcomes of this research showed promise so far - and they are presently 10 days in.

The best case scenario (if this treatment does live up to its highest positive expectations - through adaptation and approval by the FDA) - is - the possibility of distribution in 2 months.

He clarified repeatedly that the work is ongoing and final results are not in.  He advocated for patience.

One of the world's largest producer/distributors does manufacture this drug and is aware of the research being conducted.