Treating COVID-19: Review of Drug Hypersensitivity Reactions

Abstract

The disease caused by the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), ie, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has become a global pandemic since it was first reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019. Its severe clinical manifestations, which often necessitate admission to intensive care units, and high mortality rate represent a therapeutic challenge for the medical community. To date, no drugs have been approved for its treatment, and various therapeutic options are being assayed to address the pathophysiological processes underlying the clinical manifestations experienced by patients. New and old drugs administered as monotherapy or in combination to immunologically compromised patients may favor the development of adverse drug reactions, including drug hypersensitivity reactions, which must be identified and managed accordingly. Given the lack of herd immunity and the high rate of viral contagion, new cases are expected to emerge in the coming months. Thus, the probability of more adverse reactions or even new clinical manifestations may increase in parallel. Allergists must receive updated information on these treatments, as well as on the management of possible drug hypersensitivity reactions.