With potential antiviral effects on severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and as a methyl-xanthine derived inhibitor of phosphodiesterase-4, pentoxifylline basically functions as a hemorrheologic agent for a better circulation and oxygenation and exerts unique effects on immune modulation, inflammation and oxidative stress. As the main regulator of cAMP metabolism, posphodiesterase-4 plays a key role in proinflammatory and immune cells. Pentoxifylline plays its anti-inflammatory role by reducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-a, IL-1 and IL-6. Given its unique impacts on immune modulation, homeostasis and fibrinolysis and its supportive effects on oxidative stress and organ failure, pentoxifylline can constitute a multipurpose and generally-safe adjuvant therapy for COVID-19 patients.
Drug: Pentoxifylline
Pentoxifylline 400 mg SR tablet
Drug: Placebo
Placebo tablet
Inclusion Criteria:
- Positive COVID-19 test
- Age >/= 18 y.o.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Allergic reaction to Pentoxifylline
- Ongoing anticoagulation
- History of GI bleeding
- History of Seizures
- Cardiac or other vascular stents
- History of severe renal disease
- History of intracranial hemorrhage.
Faculty of Medicine
Shibīn Al Kawm, Egypt