A recent international study led by researchers from the Australian National University (ANU) and King's College London suggests that inhaled heparin may be an effective treatment for seriously ill COVID-19 patients. The study involved nearly 500 hospitalized patients across six countries and found that those who received inhaled heparin were 50% less likely to require ventilation and had a significantly lower risk of mortality compared to those receiving standard care.
Traditionally administered via injection to treat blood clots, heparin in its inhaled form targets the lungs directly. In addition to its anticoagulant properties, the drug has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. Previous studies indicated improvements in respiratory function and oxygen levels in COVID-19 patients following inhalation of heparin.
The research team, including Professor Clive Page of King's and Professor Frank van Haren of ANU, noted the potential for inhaled heparin to be beneficial not only for COVID-19 but also for other serious respiratory infections such as pneumonia. The drug's unique combination of properties may prove advantageous in managing various respiratory illnesses, especially for patients with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment.
Despite these promising findings, further development and trials are necessary before inhaled heparin can be routinely used in clinical settings. The researchers plan to conduct additional trials in Europe to confirm its effectiveness against other respiratory infections such as influenza and RSV. The affordability of heparin also positions it as a more accessible treatment option for patients in low-income countries.
The results of this study were published in eClinicalMedicine and presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) International Congress in Amsterdam.