Mycophenolic Acid and Steroids Increase Risk, while Tacrolimus and Cyclosporine Decrease Risk
In a groundbreaking study of 60,456 solid organ transplant recipients, researchers have identified the impact of immunosuppressive drugs on COVID-19-related hospitalization risk. The study revealed that maintenance therapy with these drugs significantly affects the outcomes of transplant recipients who contract COVID-19.
Key Findings:
- Mycophenolic acid and steroids were associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 hospitalization, with a relative risk increase of 29%-72%.
- In liver and heart transplant patients, tacrolimus and cyclosporine were linked to a decreased risk of hospitalization, with relative risk decreases of 23% and 33%, respectively.
- These findings highlight the importance of closely monitoring solid organ transplant recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Background:
Solid organ transplant recipients have an elevated risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection due to their immunosuppressed state, comorbidities, and other factors. Previous studies had indicated an increased risk of severe disease or death related to COVID-19 in this population, but the influence of various immunosuppressive therapies had not been thoroughly explored.
Methods:
- The cohort study used data from the French National Health Data System and included patients of all ages who received transplants.
- The study covered the period from February 15, 2020, to July 31, 2022.
- Factors such as age, sex, comorbidities, time since transplant, and immunosuppressive drugs were examined.
- The primary outcome was hospitalization for COVID-19.
Conclusion:
This study sheds light on the association between specific immunosuppressive drugs and the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization in solid organ transplant recipients. Mycophenolic acid, sirolimus, and steroids were linked to an increased risk, while tacrolimus and cyclosporine were associated with a reduced risk of hospitalization. These findings have implications for the treatment of transplant recipients and may inform future epidemic-related decisions for this vulnerable population. Further research may be necessary to confirm these findings and refine treatment strategies.