Oxford Launches UK Trial of Existing Meds to Prevent Severe COVID-19 in Older Patients

Oxford University has launched a clinical trial testing existing drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin, as preventative COVID-19 treatments in older patients.

The trial, called PRINCIPLE, is the first to take place in primary care, outside of hospital settings.

PRNCIPLE will test a number of low-risk treatments recommended by a panel advising the Chief Medical Officer of England. Their effectiveness will be compared to best available care.

The first phase will evaluate whether a seven-day course of hydroxychloroquine can reduce the severity of symptoms and help avoid hospital admission.

The antibiotic azithromycin will be added in the next phase of the trial. The panel has not yet publicly identified what other drugs will be included in the trial. — Jordan Williams