Partner Therapeutics Inc, a biopharmaceutical company, is evaluating Leukine (sargramostim, rhu-GM-CSF) in the SARPAC trial (sargramostim in patients with acute hypoxic respiratory failure due to COVID-19 – EudraCT #2020-001254-22) at University Hospital Ghent, it was reported on Tuesday.

The product will be utilised in nebulised form for direct inhalation or through intravenous administration for patients already on a respirator. Nebulised Leukine has been studied in phase two and phase three randomised trials in pulmonary conditions that affect alveolar macrophages, such as aPAP. IV administration of Leukine has been studied extensively in other conditions and in phase two randomised trials in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Major medical centres in Germany, Italy and Spain are planning to join the study. The study will assess the effect of Leukine on lung function and patient results. The use of Leukine to treat respiratory disorders associated with COVID-19 is investigational and has not been fully evaluated by any regulatory authority.