Researchers from the RECOVERY program have released data suggesting that arthritis drug tocilizumab can reduce mortality in severely ill COVID-19 patients. A 5000 person trial saw 29% of those receiving the drug die within 28 days, compared to 33% in the group receiving treatments such as oxygen support and ventilation. Further, ventilated patients who received a combination of tocilizumab and dexamethasone saw a 50% reduction in risk of death. Beyond the reduction in mortality researchers indicate that tocilizumab increases the chances of hospital discharge and reduces the changes of mechanical ventilation.