The use of hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, or both were not associated with differences in in-hospital mortality. Cardiac arrest was more likely in patients receiving hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin.

In this retrospective, multicenter study, the authors selected a random sample (n = 1,438) of all patients (n = 8,970) admitted for COVID-19 to New York City healthcare centers between March 15 and 28, and examined the association between hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, and outcomes.

This observational study confirms prior findings of a lack of association between hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin use, and outcomes in patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

This study, however, samples 25 facilities across New York City, providing some generalizability.

Short of a randomized clinical trial, no findings from observational studies can provide definitive conclusions on the effectiveness of therapy.

However, the significant increase in the risk of cardiac arrest with hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin is a major cause for concern and should give pause to any clinician considering these therapies for the treatment of COVID-19.

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