Comparison of Efficacy of Dexamethasone and Methylprednisolone in Moderate to Severe Covid 19 Disease

The investigators enrolled first 100 participants admitted in covid unit of Fatima memorial hospital who fulfilled the inclusion criteria and signed informed consent. Baseline oxygen saturation and clinical findings were noted. Chest x-ray was done on admission. Baseline labs were sent, initial level of CRP (C-reactive protein) was noted down.

Patients with oxygen saturation < 94% on room air with normal chest x-ray and CRP between 30 - 50, were labelled as having moderate covid 19 disease. Patients with CRP> 50 and having infiltrates on chest x-ray at the time of admission were considered having severe covid 19 disease. Intravenous methylprednisolone in a dose of 1 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses or dexamethasone 8 mg/day IV was given to alternate patients for 5 days. After 5 days, the investigator again recorded the oxygen saturation, CRP level and repeat chest x-ray findings.

Patients were given tocilizumab and convalescent plasma as and when indicated. Oxygen was given by nasal cannula and face mask. Patient was shifted to ICU if clinical condition deteriorated and/or mechanical ventilation is needed.

The investigator noted the improvement in clinical, radiological and biochemical parameters of the patient on day 0 that is admission day and later on day 5 after giving steroids (methylprednisolone or dexamethasone) for 5 days.

Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics like frequency and means were calculated. Paired sample t-test was applied for comparison of the two groups.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 18 to 75 years
• Covid PCR positive
• Patient having oxygen saturation < 94% on room air, regardless of chest x-ray findings
• Moderate or severe covid 19 disease according to operational definition.
• Patients who sign informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Severe immunosuppression like HIV( Human immunodeficiency Virus) or long term use of immunosuppressant for any other chronic illness
• Patients who need corticosteroids for any other disease like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis.
• Pregnant or lactating females