Study finds imatinib ineffective for COVID-19 patients at University of Helsinki

A recent study led by the University of Helsinki has found that imatinib does not reduce mortality rates among COVID-19 patients. Previous claims suggested that the drug could help decrease the death toll from the virus.

“Unfortunately, this suggests that imatinib is not an effective treatment for COVID-19,” stated Alex Halme, a doctoral researcher at the University of Helsinki, in a press release.

The study examined both the short-term and long-term effects of imatinib on hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Some participants received standard care, while others were administered imatinib alongside their usual treatment. Researchers assessed mortality rates after 30 days and again one year post-treatment.

Additionally, the study highlighted that symptoms similar to those seen in long COVID were prevalent among patients who required hospitalization, even a year following their illness.