Background Currently, the data regarding the effectiveness and safety
of tocilizumab as treatment for COVID-19 infection is still conflicting.
This study aims to give clear evidence regarding the potential benefit and
safety of tocilizumab in improving the outcome of COVID-19 patients.
Methods We systematically searched the PubMed and Europe PMC database
using specific keywords related to our aims until November 1st,
2020. All articles published on COVID-19 and tocilizumab were retrieved.
Statistical analysis was done using Review Manager 5.4 software.
Results A total of 38 studies with a total of 13 412 COVID-19
patients were included in our analysis. Our meta-analysis showed that
tocilizumab treatment is associated with reduction of mortality rate from
COVID-19 [OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.42–0.71),
p<0.00001, I
2=79%, random-effect modelling], but did not
alter the severity of COVID-19 [OR 1.05 (95% CI 0.92–1.20),
p=0.47, I
2=84%, random-effect modelling] and length of
hospital stay [Mean Difference 1.77 days (95% CI
−0.61–4.14 days), p=0.15, I
2=97%, random-effect modelling]. Tocilizumab also
does not associated with serious adverse events compared with standard of
care treatment [OR 0.91 (95% CI 0.71–1.15),
p=0.42, I
2=46%, random-effect modelling].
Conclusion Our study does not support the routine use of tocilizumab
for COVID-19 patients. Future studies should focus more on other potential
therapies for COVID-19 patients.