2.2. Randomization and Masking
Eligible patients were randomly assigned (1:1) using a web-based secure centralized system to either standard care plus anakinra (100 mg subcutaneously every 6 h for 10 days) or placebo (normal saline subcutaneously every 6 h for 10 days) plus standard care. The administration of anakinra or placebo was generally initiated within 12 h after informed consent was obtained. All patients received dexamethasone (6 mg daily) as concomitant treatment based on the results of the Randomized Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy (RECOVERY) trial [