Tocilizumab therapy for COVID-19: A comparison of subcutaneous and intravenous therapies.

Background: The release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, resulting in cytokine storm syndrome, contributes to the morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 disease. This study aimed to compare the effects of intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SC) tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor antagonist, on respiratory parameters and clinical outcome in patients with COVID 19.

Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 treated with either IV or SC tocilizumab from March 26, 2020, to May 18, 2020.