Study of Lopinavir/Ritonavir in Severe COVID-19 Patients with Comorbid Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Lopinavir/ritonavir is an antiviral studied for its effectiveness in healing severe COVID-19 infection; however, it remains debated. This study determined the efficacy and evaluated the side effects of lopinavir/ ritonavir on severe COVID-19 patients with comorbid hypertension and diabetes mellitus.Methods: Retrospective data collection was conducted from June to December 2020. The data were then analyzed descriptively. Severe COVID-19 patients with hypertension and diabetes mellitus who received lopinavir/ ritonavir were grouped into groups A, B, C, D and observed based on other pharmaceutical therapies (antibiotics, corticosteroids, anticoagulants, multivitamins and supplements, comorbid therapy, and symptomatic therapy) obtained. The efficacy of lopinavir/ritonavir was identifiable through RT-PCR, oxygenation saturation, and chest X-ray. The side effects of lopinavir/ritonavir were also be evaluated. Results:Only 21 total sample met the inclusion criteria. The oral administration of lopinavir/ritonavir (2 x 400/100 mg) was effective in groups A, B, C, and D whose negative RT-PCR results were respectively 10%, 48%, 5%, and 14%; normal oxygen saturation with the administration of oxygen therapy was 10%, 33%, 5%, and 5%, respectively; and chest X-ray improvement was 10%, 29%, 5%, and 14%, respectively. Lopinavir/ritonavir could increase SGOT (46%), SGPT (27%), as well as a QT interval prolongation (5%). Conclusion:The administration of lopinavir/ritonavir is effective to rule out negative RTPCR results, improve chest X-ray imaging and oxygen saturation. Monitoring side effects merits more attention to avoid those potential side effects of the therapies.