bupivacaine + clonidine + dexamethasone

This specific combination therapy is being evaluated in a Phase 1 clinical trial (NCT04445337) led by the University of Nebraska Medical Center for the treatment of COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The intervention involves a modified stellate ganglion block (SGB) using a combination of the local anesthetic bupivacaine, the alpha-2 adrenergic agonist clonidine, and the synthetic corticosteroid dexamethasone (specifically the preservative-free formulation Decadron PF). This regional nerve blockade approach aims to modulate sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity and reduce systemic inflammation (cytokine storm) associated with severe COVID-19. Dexamethasone is included in the mixture to provide direct anti-inflammatory effects on the stellate ganglia and to prolong the duration of the block, while clonidine and bupivacaine work synergistically to inhibit sympathetic outflow and interrupt nerve conduction.

Other names

Stellate Ganglion BlockSGBStellate Ganglion Blockade