Results from preliminary research show that AstraZeneca’s blood cancer treatment Calquence (acalabrutinib) provides a benefit in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

The study looked at 19 severe COVID-19 patients. Over the course of treatment, Calquence improved oxygenation in a majority of patients. By the end of treatment, eight of 11 patients who had needed supplemental oxygen no longer needed it, and four of eight patients on mechanical ventilation were successfully extubated.

The company said the positive results support the initiation of global phase 2 trials which were announced in March.