GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has launched a phase 2 trial in the UK of its investigational rheumatoid arthritis treatment otilimab for hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Patients will be given a single, one-hour infusion of the monoclonal antibody or a placebo in addition to the standard of care to assess if the drug can ease the effects of coronavirus infections on the lungs. It will enroll hospitalized COVID-19 patients who are receiving oxygen or ventilator support.

GSK believes otilimab could potentially treat cytokine storm, a severe overreaction by the immune system. The antibody is currently in phase 3 testing for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.