Abstract:

Objective: Famotidine is an H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) and has been shown to have antiviral properties in in-vitro studies. Pantoprazole is one of the proton pump inhibitors (PPI). In this study, it was aimed to compare the efficacy of Famotidine with Pantoprazole in the treatment of COVID-19. Material-method: Patients who were hospitalized and given famotidine and pantoprazole treatment for at least 48 hours were included in the study. Demographic, clinical and laboratory findings of the patients were analyzed retroprospectively from the patient files. While the primary endpoints were the need for an intensive care unit (ICU) and death, the secondary endpoints were the absence of the need for oxygen support, fever to normal levels, and length of hospital stay. Results: A total of 179 Covid-19 patients (85 (47.5%) famotidine, 94 (52.5%) pantoprazole) were included in the study. Demographic findings and other symptoms except dyspnea were similar in both groups (p> 0.05). Dyspnea, chronic diseases, and the number of patients given steroids were higher in those who were given pantoprazole (p <0.05). Mortality and ICU need was similar in both groups (p> 0.05). The number of days with fever, duration of hospitalization, and the number of days requiring oxygen support was less in those given famotidine (p <0.05). Conclusion: Famotidine did not reduce the need for intensive care and mortality in COVID-19 patients treated in the hospital. New antivirals are needed to reduce disease severity and mortality.