| Meta-analysis on |
# Studies used |
Random effect model conclusion |
Heterogeneity between studies |
Conclusion from the forest plot |
Conclusion from the funnel plot |
| Progression/ Improvement Rate |
4 |
Progression rate in HCQ treated individuals is on average 1.2 times than non-HCQ individuals. This implies HCQ patients are slightly at an advantage on progression rate as compared to non-HCQ patients. |
A bit of heterogeneity is observed among studies, which might be attributed to Study 6. |
All studies are in agreement except Study 6, which shows some uncertainty in its results. |
Study 6 has a bit of asymmetry, implying a small publication bias. It should be noted that study 6 has very low power also to distinguish the effect of HCQ from non-HCQ treatment. |
| Severity Rate |
4 |
The severity rate in HCQ treated individuals is on average 0.69 times the non HCQ individuals. This means HCQ treated patients are 0.69 times more likely to face severe situations than non-HCQ patients. |
Slight heterogeneity observed among studies |
All studies are in agreement with respect to the conclusion. |
Studies are symmetric except Study 1, showing slight asymmetry ie publication bias. |
| Mortality Rate |
2 |
The risk of mortality in HCQ treated individuals is on average 2.54 times more than the non HCQ individuals. |
No heterogeneity found, i.e., studies are homogeneous |
Study 2 is more confident about its results and Study 1 is relatively less confident. |
Slight asymmetry is noticed, however, as the number of studies are only two, it can be due to random effects. |
