Details of the dexamethasone trial are still sketchy, and awaiting the peer review that will evaluate the findings. We tracked down the University’s official press release, because we were impatient to learn more. We discovered the Oxford University dexamethasone trial enrolled over 11,500 patients on the program. Moreover, this very large number renders the results statistically reliable, and that makes it even more significant.
Randomized Approach to Oxford University Dexamethasone Trial
The randomized trial tested a range of potential COVID-19 treatments, including a low-dose dexamethasone steroid drug. Furthermore, the over 11,500 patients were at 175 National Health Service (NHS) hospitals to remove bias. The NHS is the UK government public health service.
The Oxford University dexamethasone trial began in March 2020. A total 2,104 of the over 11,500 patients were randomly selected to receive the low-dose dexamethasone steroid drug for 10 days. By 8 June however, the Oxford University steering committee halted it. This was because informed opinion determined the sample size was adequate.
How the Results Were Processed and the Outcome Calculated
A further 4,321 patients continued with their customary treatment regimes. Their 28-day mortality rate was highest among those on ventilators at 41%. Those on oxygen were only 25% likely to die, while those with no breathing assistance came in at 13%.
The patients in the Oxford University dexamethasone trial receiving the test drug scored significantly better. Those on ventilators were one third less likely to die, while those on oxygen were only 10% better off. However, there was no discernible benefit for patients in the sample not receiving respiratory assistance.
These results make the dexamethasone steroid drug the first proven method for improving survival in COVID-19. The product is inexpensive, on the shelf, and available immediately to save lives worldwide. Therefore this appears to be a fantastic, ground-breaking development in the fight against the deadly disease.
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Preview Image: Research Base at Nuffield Department of Medicine
