Octapharma USA is launching a phase 3 trial of its Octagam 10 percent immune-globulin solution as a possible treatment for COVID-19 patients with severe disease progression.

The trial will assess whether the therapy can slow or stop respiratory deterioration. Patients will be randomized to receive either the intravenous immune globulin or a placebo.

The trial at 10 U.S. sites will enroll approximately 54 adults with severe COVID-19 and oxygen saturation of less than 93 percent.