Claim Review: Remdesivir Papers Allege Controversial Drug Used to Treat Service Members Led to 601 Deaths

A recent article titled 'Remdesivir Papers' Allege Controversial Drug Used to Treat Service Members Led to 601 Deaths' has sparked controversy over the use of remdesivir, an antiviral drug commonly administered to COVID-19 patients. The article claims that a military whistleblower released documents revealing 601 deaths of military service members and a high rate of serious adverse events in clinical trials involving remdesivir. The article also alleges that some clinical trials were improperly run and that there was a widespread lack of informed consent for trial participants.

The claim that remdesivir led to 601 deaths among military service members is not supported by reliable scientific evidence. While there are concerns about the drug's efficacy and safety, the data presented in the article is not sufficient to conclusively link remdesivir to the reported deaths.

The article cites a study published in The Lancet that raised concerns about the efficacy of remdesivir, noting that administration of remdesivir was stopped early in China 'because of adverse events in 18 (12%)' of patients 'versus four (5%) who stopped placebo early.' However, this study does not provide evidence that remdesivir caused the reported deaths.

The article also cites a study published in JAMA Network Open that found that 'remdesivir treatment was not associated with survival,' with more deaths and longer hospital stays among those patients who received remdesivir compared to those who did not receive the drug. However, this study also does not provide evidence that remdesivir caused the reported deaths.

The article alleges that the military began 'liberally' administering remdesivir to service members who were suspected of having COVID-19 — months before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug. However, the article does not provide evidence that the military's use of remdesivir was improper or that it caused the reported deaths.

The article also alleges that key details about the risks of remdesivir were concealed from service members, depriving them of being able to provide informed consent. However, the article does not provide evidence that the military's informed consent process was inadequate or that it caused the reported deaths.

In conclusion, the claim that remdesivir led to 601 deaths among military service members is not supported by reliable scientific evidence. While there are concerns about the drug's efficacy and safety, the data presented in the article is not sufficient to conclusively link remdesivir to the reported deaths. Further research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19.

References:

• The Lancet Study