In the News


Research shows mixed findings on tocilizumab, offers prognostic strategies in COVID-19

One trial of IL-6 inhibitors found improved survival among patients on organ support, while another found no difference in rates of recovery with tocilizumab versus placebo. An online calculator offered a new score for predicting progression of COVID-19, and a study categorized patients into three phenotypes.

FDA authorizes new vaccine, NIH announces research into ‘long COVID’

The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine got an emergency use authorization, and an Israeli study provided more data on the Pfizer vaccine. The NIH named long-term symptoms as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC).

Combination treatment including vitamin C does not appear to affect outcomes in sepsis

The VICTAS Trial found no increase in ventilator- or vasopressor-free days within 30 days in critically ill patients with sepsis who received vitamin C, thiamine, and hydrocortisone versus placebo.

Studies examine impact of hospital policies on C. difficile infection rates

While one study found that participation in an antibiotic stewardship program from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality led to reductions in hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile infection rates, a simulation study found that visitor contact precautions may not be as helpful.

Early anticoagulation appears safe after acute ischemic stroke in patients with afib

The AREST trial, which ended early due to changes in national guidelines, found statistically similar but numerically lower rates of the primary study outcome (fatal stroke, recurrent ischemic stroke, or transient ischemic attack) in those who received anticoagulation early with apixaban versus later with warfarin.

Put words in our mouth

ACP Hospitalist Weekly wants readers to create captions for our new cartoon and help choose the winner. Pen the winning caption and win a $50 gift certificate good toward any ACP product, program, or service.