VA Begins COVID-19 Clinical Trial Treating Veterans with Prostate Cancer Drug

May 15, 2020

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced a potential treatment for men who have contracted coronavirus which uses the drug degarelix, the agency reported on Friday.

The drug, which is used to treat advanced cases of prostate cancer by suppressing the production of male hormones, has shown prevent COVID-19 from entering lung tissue.

“Veterans who have contracted this virus are in need of immediate care,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “This trial is an important step in advancing knowledge of a potential treatment for those infected with COVID-19. We are here to do everything in our power to preserve and protect life.”

The treatment unfortunately is not effective for females and can worsen the severity of coronavirus symptoms. Researchers at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center are leading the trial.

Photo by Army Sgt. Deonte Rowell

May 15, 2020

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