Do Janus kinase inhibitors represent a therapeutic option for severe COVID-19?
Baricitinib, fedratinib, and ruxolitinib are potent and selective JAK-STAT signaling inhibitors approved for indications such as rheumatoid arthritis and myelofibrosis. These drugs are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that may reduce the systemic levels of cytokines associated with COVID-19.192 Indeed, in a pilot study of 12 COVID-19 patients, baricitinib limited the CSS and was beneficial for the patients.193