a new study suggests that one of the main drugs used to treat covid-19 may be more effective in men than women.
advertisement
as of nov. 12, 50.3 per cent of all covid-19 cases in canada have been in women, according to the government of canada .
a different study published earlier this year in the new england journal of medicine found that the use of dexamethasone resulted in a slightly lower 28-day mortality rate for covid-19 patients. a total of 2,104 patients received dexamethasone, while 4,321 patients did not, but still received hospital care. in total, 22.9 per cent of those given dexamethasone died, compared to 25.7 per cent in the usual care group after 28 days. the study also lists that 36 per cent of the patients were female. it also says the results were more effective in those also receiving respiratory support.
advertisement
dexamethasone is typically used for relief for inflammation, but has several other uses as well. blood or bone marrow issues, kidney problems, multiple sclerosis, and severe allergies can all be treated with dexamethasone.
there are currently a number of drugs being tested to treat covid-19 in canada, in addition to vaccines. earlier this week, pharmaceutical company pfizer submitted an experimental pill to treat the disease to the u.s. food and drug administration. health canada is yet to receive an application from pfizer for the pill, but told cbc that if it does, it would be reviewed on a priority basis.