British scientists are conducting a clinical trial to determine whether ibuprofen can treat breathing difficulties in hospitalized coronavirus patients.

The team from London’s Guy’s and St. Thomas’ hospital and King’s College are hoping that the inexpensive, anti-inflammatory drug can keep people off ventilators.

According to BBC News, studies in animals show that the drug may be effective in treating acute respiratory distress syndrome, or ARDS, which is one of the symptoms of severe coronavirus. Half the patients in the trial, called Liberate, will receive an advanced form of ibuprofen used by arthritis patients, along with regular medical care.

There were concerns about using ibuprofen after France’s health minister said that the drug, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, could worsen COVID-19.

However, experts told NPR that there is no evidence to support this claim. The World Health Organization stated:

“Based on currently available information, WHO does not recommend against the use of ibuprofen. We are also consulting with physicians treating COVID-19 patients and are not aware of reports of any negative effects of ibuprofen, beyond the usual known side effects that limit its use in certain populations.”

NPR noted that ibuprofen, along with other NSAIDs, can aggravate asthma symptoms. People with stomach ulcers should also avoid the drug, said BBC News.