The RECOVERY trial led the way in scientific advances during the initial stages of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic with regards to changing clinical practice [1,2]. This was a result of, among other things, a well-designed and simple trial protocol that allowed easy implementation during a time when healthcare was most vulnerable [2–4]. We will outline the key reasons that led to RECOVERY having success as well as some things that may need further evidence or consideration while interpreting the results.
