In response to the COVID-19 pandemic many health care systems have attempted to reorganize healthcare workforce. Many doctors and nurses have been redeployed to acute care wards. In order to ensure the best quality of care it is essential for health professionals to stay updated on clinical studies and novel therapeutical approaches. Most patients with COVID-19 who become seriously unwell have an acute respiratory illness and about 14 % will require non-invasive respiratory support. This article aims at presenting some of the approaches in respiratory support and drug therapy. The overview of management is based on current guidelines and conclusions of several studies. The author is aware of the fact that the approach in COVID-19 management may change over time based on the current state of knowledge. It is worth mentioning that regardless its severity clinical symptoms associated with COVID-19 pneumonia may only be minor and thus regular monitoring on standard wards is required. The article refers to recent studies related to dexamethasone and remdesivir. The treatment with interleukin-6 receptor antagonists is also discussed. Finally, other drugs in treatment of COVID-19 patients are mentioned.