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Kwak SG, Choo YJ, Chang MC. The effectiveness of high-dose intravenous vitamin C for patients with coronavirus disease 2019: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2022; 64:102797. [PMID: 34953366 PMCID: PMC8692241 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory effects. This review aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of high-dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). METHODS The following key phrases were searched for article inclusion: "Vitamin C OR ascorbic acid" AND "COVID-19 OR coronavirus disease 2019 OR severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 OR SARS-CoV-2″. Articles that utilized HDIVC for the management of patients with COVID-19 were included, whereas review articles and case reports were excluded from this review. Moreover, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate whether HDIVC can reduce the length of hospital stay and in-hospital mortality rate of patients with severe COVID-19. RESULTS In total, eight articles were included in this review, and five studies were included in the meta-analysis. The length of hospital stay was not significantly different between the HDIVC and control groups. Also, although our meta-analysis showed a tendency for HDIVC to reduce the in-hospital mortality rate in patients with severe COVID-19, the in-hospital mortality rate was not significantly different between patients treated with HDIVC and those who did not receive HDIVC. CONCLUSIONS Evidence supporting the therapeutic use of HDICV in COVID-19 patients is lacking. Further studies are required for drawing a clear conclusion on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Gyu Kwak
- Department of Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo Jin Choo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
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152
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Chavda VP, Patel AB, Vihol D, Vaghasiya DD, Ahmed KMSB, Trivedi KU, Dave DJ. Herbal Remedies, Nutraceuticals, and Dietary Supplements for COVID-19 Management: An Update. CLINICAL COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 2:100021. [PMID: 36620357 PMCID: PMC8816850 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccmp.2022.100021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Currently, the world is facing a Coronavirus pandemic with a grave deficiency of specific therapy for Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Moreover, scientists attempt to discover the most refined approach to prevent this condition. Regarding COVID-19 infection, herbal medicines with immunomodulatory effects may offer patients a promising preventive treatment option. Several ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are effective during this worrisome Coronavirus pandemic i.e. Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, Curcuma longa L. etc. TCM was shown to be utilized with over 90% efficacy when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in early 2020. In addition to herbal treatments and nutraceutical drugs, dietary supplements such as vitamins and amino acid derivatives also play a significant part in COVID-19 management. Diet can assist in regulating inflammation, while nutraceuticals can aid in the prevention of viral invasion. Functional amino acids (e.g., arginine, cysteine, glutamate, glutamine, glycine, taurine, and tryptophan) and glutathione, which are all abundant in animal-sourced foodstuffs, are crucial for optimum immunity and health in humans and animals. The goal of this article is to thoroughly evaluate recent statistics on the effectiveness of herbal medicines in COVID-19, the antiviral activity of nutraceuticals, and the significance of these results in creating dietary supplements that would enhance innate immunity and contribute as preventive measures against severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek P Chavda
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India,Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharm. Technology, K. B. Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya, Gandhinagar 382023, Gujarat, India,Corresponding author
| | - Aayushi B. Patel
- Pharmacy Section, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Disha Vihol
- Pharmacy Section, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Darsh D. Vaghasiya
- Pharmacy Section, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Kushal U. Trivedi
- Pharmacy Section, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Divyang J Dave
- Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharm. Technology, K. B. Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya, Gandhinagar 382023, Gujarat, India
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153
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Rivara FP, Fihn SD. JAMA Network Open-The Year in Review, 2021. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e225661. [PMID: 35333368 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.5661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick P Rivara
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle
- Editor, JAMA Network Open
| | - Stephan D Fihn
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
- Deputy Editor, JAMA Network Open
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154
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Dubey AK, Chaudhry SK, Singh HB, Gupta VK, Kaushik A. Perspectives on nano-nutraceuticals to manage pre and post COVID-19 infections. BIOTECHNOLOGY REPORTS (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 33:e00712. [PMID: 35186674 PMCID: PMC8832856 DOI: 10.1016/j.btre.2022.e00712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Optimized therapeutic bio-compounds supported by bio-acceptable nanosystems (i.e., precise nanomedicine) have ability to promote health via maintaining body structure, organ function, and controlling chronic and acute effects. Therefore, nano-nutraceuticals (designed to neutralize virus, inhibit virus bindings with receptors, and support immunity) utilization can manage COVID-19 pre/post-infection effects. To explore these approaches well, our mini-review explores optimized bio-active compounds, their ability to influence SARS-CoV-2 infection, improvement in performance supported by precise nanomedicine approach, and challenges along with prospects. Such optimized pharmacologically relevant therapeutic cargo not only affect SARS-CoV-2 but will support other organs which show functional alternation due to SARS-CoV-2 for example, neurological functions. Hence, coupling the nutraceuticals with the nano-pharmacology perspective of higher efficacy via targeted delivery action can pave a novel way for health experts to plan future research needed to manage post COVID-19 infection effect where a longer efficacy with no side-effects is a key requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Kumar Dubey
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Tamil Nadu, 600036, India
- Institute of Scholars (InSc), Bengaluru, 560091, Karnataka, India
| | - Suman Kumar Chaudhry
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Tezpur University, Sonitpur, Assam, 784028, India
| | | | - Vijai Kumar Gupta
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Center, SRUC, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, United Kingdom
- Center for Safe and Improved Food, SRUC, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, United Kingdom
| | - Ajeet Kaushik
- NanoBioTech Laboratory, Health Systems Engineering, Department of Natural Sciences, Florida Polytechnic University, Lakeland, FL, 33805, United States of America
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155
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Multi-Level Immune Support by Vitamins C and D during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14030689. [PMID: 35277048 PMCID: PMC8840673 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamins C and D have well-known immune supportive roles, with deficiencies in both vitamins predisposing to increased risk and severity of respiratory infections. Numerous studies have indicated that administration of these vitamins, particularly to people who are deficient, can decrease the risk and severity of respiratory infections. This has stimulated an interest in the potential efficacy of these vitamins in people with novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection and its more severe disease (COVID-19). In this overview, we highlight the current research evidence around the multiple levels of immune support provided by vitamins C and D in the context of general respiratory infections and with a focus on the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. These include: prevention of infection; attenuating infection symptoms and severity; adjunctive therapy for severe disease; attenuating ongoing sequelae (e.g., long COVID); and immunisation support. Although some of these topics have not yet been investigated in great depth concerning SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, extensive research into the role of these vitamins in general respiratory infections has highlighted directions for future research in the current pandemic.
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156
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Elkrief A, Wu JT, Jani C, Enriquez KT, Glover M, Shah MR, Shaikh HG, Beeghly-Fadiel A, French B, Jhawar SR, Johnson DB, McKay RR, Rivera DR, Reuben DY, Shah S, Tinianov SL, Vinh DC, Mishra S, Warner JL. Learning through a Pandemic: The Current State of Knowledge on COVID-19 and Cancer. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:303-330. [PMID: 34893494 PMCID: PMC8831477 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-1368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has left patients with current or past history of cancer facing disparate consequences at every stage of the cancer trajectory. This comprehensive review offers a landscape analysis of the current state of the literature on COVID-19 and cancer, including the immune response to COVID-19, risk factors for severe disease, and impact of anticancer therapies. We also review the latest data on treatment of COVID-19 and vaccination safety and efficacy in patients with cancer, as well as the impact of the pandemic on cancer care, including the urgent need for rapid evidence generation and real-world study designs. SIGNIFICANCE: Patients with cancer have faced severe consequences at every stage of the cancer journey due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This comprehensive review offers a landscape analysis of the current state of the field regarding COVID-19 and cancer. We cover the immune response, risk factors for severe disease, and implications for vaccination in patients with cancer, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care delivery. Overall, this review provides an in-depth summary of the key issues facing patients with cancer during this unprecedented health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielle Elkrief
- Division of Medical Oncology (Department of Medicine), McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Julie T Wu
- Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Chinmay Jani
- Mount Auburn Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Kyle T Enriquez
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | | - Mansi R Shah
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | | | | | | | - Sachin R Jhawar
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | - Rana R McKay
- University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Donna R Rivera
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Services, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Daniel Y Reuben
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Surbhi Shah
- Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Stacey L Tinianov
- Advocates for Collaborative Education, UCSF Breast Science Advocacy Core, San Francisco, California
| | - Donald Cuong Vinh
- Division of Infectious Diseases (Department of Medicine), Divisions of Medical Microbiology and of Molecular Diagnostics (OptiLab), McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sanjay Mishra
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jeremy L Warner
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.
- Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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157
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Kumar S, Acharya S, Jain S, Shukla S, Talwar D, Shah D, Hulkoti V, Parveen S, Patel M, Patel S. Role of Zinc and Clinicopathological Factors for COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis (CAM) in a Rural Hospital of Central India: A Case-Control Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e22528. [PMID: 35345725 PMCID: PMC8955911 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.22528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)has been a difficult enemy to beat for healthcare professionals around the world. However, even before the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an emergence of a new combatant in the form of opportunistic fungal infections with a high rate of morbidity and mortality, creating havoc throughout the globe. Methods A case-control single-center study was conducted in Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, Maharashtra. All the subjects who were included in the study were tested positive for COVID-19 through the reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method and the cases were defined as patients with biopsy-proven mucormycosis, whereas control were subjects who did not develop mucormycosis. The duration of the study was three months, from June 2021 to August 2021. Result A total of 55 cases and 50 controls were enrolled in the study. The use of zinc was found to be significantly associated with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, with 89.1% of the cases having a history of zinc intake and only 52% of controls having a history of zinc intake( p-value <0.001). Diabetes mellitus was found to be significantly associated with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis with 83.6% of the cases and 16% of the controls having diabetes mellitus (p-value <0.001). Although the use of steroids in cases was more with 98.2% of the cases and 54% of the control receiving steroids; this difference was not significant statistically (p-value of 1.00). Conclusion We conclude that apart from diabetes mellitus and other immunosuppressive states, zinc might be the hidden culprit behind the sudden surge of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis worldwide owing to the self-administration of zinc by the patients to acquire innate immunity and over-prescription of multivitamins by the treating clinicians. However, this association required further studies in order to be proved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Sourya Acharya
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Shraddha Jain
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Samarth Shukla
- Department of Pathology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Dhruv Talwar
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Divit Shah
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Vidyashree Hulkoti
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Sana Parveen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Mansi Patel
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Sujal Patel
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
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158
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Nutritional risk of vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc, and selenium deficiency on risk and clinical outcomes of COVID-19: A narrative review. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2022; 47:9-27. [PMID: 35063248 PMCID: PMC8571905 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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159
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Elements and COVID-19: A Comprehensive Overview of Studies on Their Blood/Urinary Levels and Supplementation with an Update on Clinical Trials. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020215. [PMID: 35205082 PMCID: PMC8869171 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus spreading mainly through person-to-person contact. It has caused millions of deaths around the world and lasting health problems in individuals who have survived the disease. This review concisely summarizes certain issues related to COVID-19 with a focus on elements and gives an update on clinical trials where some minerals will be tested/have been tested alone or in combination with drugs, vitamins, or plant extracts/herbal formulations in COVID-19 patients and in those at higher COVID-19 risk. Abstract The current report provides a brief overview of the clinical features, hematological/biochemical abnormalities, biomarkers, and AI-related strategies in COVID-19; presents in a nutshell the pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic options; and concisely summarizes the most important aspects related to sociodemographic and behavioral factors as well as comorbidities having an impact on this disease. It also gives a brief outline of the effect of selected elements on immune response and collects data on the levels of micro-/macro-elements and toxic metals in the blood/urine of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients and on supplementation with minerals in COVID-19 subjects. Moreover, this review provides an overview of clinical trials based on the use of minerals alone or in combination with other agents that can provide effective responses toward SARS-CoV-2 infection. The knowledge compiled in this report lays the groundwork for new therapeutic treatments and further research on biomarkers that should be as informative as possible about the patient’s condition and can provide more reliable information on COVID-19 course and prognosis. The collected results point to the need for clarification of the importance of mineral supplementation in COVID-19 and the relationships of the levels of some minerals with clinical improvement.
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160
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Borges L, Gennari-Felipe M, Dias BB, Hatanaka E. Melatonin, Zinc, and Vitamin C: Potential Adjuvant Treatment for COVID-19 Patients. Front Nutr 2022; 8:821824. [PMID: 35155533 PMCID: PMC8826215 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.821824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of nutraceutical approaches may regulate the immune system, performing a potential strategy to contain the worst outcomes of COVID-19. We reviewed the current evidence surrounding nutritional/nutraceutical approaches for the therapy in patients with COVID-19. We searched the PubMed database to report randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational research that used melatonin, zinc, or vitamin C supplementation as an intervention for COVID-19 treatment. To date, we found only three concluded studies that assessed zinc supplementation and melatonin therapy in patients with COVID-19, but with inconclusive data, relatively small sample size, and early termination of the trial. On the other hand, vitamin C therapy appears to reduce hyperinflammation and improve the oxygen support status of patients with COVID-19. However, a large part of this research involves pilot trials, and there are still conflicting data regarding mortality rate, mechanical ventilation, and duration of symptoms of patients with COVID-19. Melatonin, zinc, and vitamin C supplementation should be investigated further on the nutritional status-immune response, and data from ongoing trials are needed to understand these molecules as a therapy strategy in patients COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Borges
- Interdisciplinary Program of Health Sciences, Cruzeiro Do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
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161
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Hesitancy Regarding Medical Advice on COVID-19: An Emergency Department Perspective. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2022; 16:1141-1151. [PMID: 35045916 PMCID: PMC8961063 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2022.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The rejection of or non-compliance with treatment arises for different reasons by patients who receive treatment recommendations for various diseases. These states are described by various concepts, such as discharge against medical advice (DAMA) and medication nonadherence (MNA). The basis of the study is to determine how these states have arisen during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Method: The data of this study were collected through standardized interviews with 103 volunteer participants who were diagnosed with COVID-19 at different times and who did not use their prescribed medicine during the pandemic in Turkey. The data obtained in the research were analyzed through the MAXQDA qualitative analysis program. Results: As a result of the analysis of the data, 4 main themes and sub-codes have been reached: (1) prescribed medicine, (2) an information source for the COVID-19 period/treatment, (3) the reason for medication nonadherence, and (4) treatment of choice. When the approach toward treatment of patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 and had started treatment by a physician was evaluated, it was revealed that the nonadherence state emerged as a cycle. In the initial period, nonadherence due to the medication itself was observed. The second period is when the patients recognize their disease and collect information from their environment. Although this period begins before the disease, the search for informative sources intensifies, especially once the diagnosis has been received. In the third period, with their diagnosis and the information they had obtained, patients consider the reasons to use the medication and then decide whether or not to use it. In the fourth period, the patients who will not use antivirals consider other medications, such as anti-flu, anticoagulant, supplements, and nutrition. Conclusion: Since a specific treatment protocol has not yet been revealed for COVID-19, a new conceptual framework is required. In the current condition, the state of “hesitation for medical advice” arises for non-hospitalized patients.
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162
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Micronutrient Deficiency as a Confounder in Ascertaining the Role of Obesity in Severe COVID-19 Infection. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031125. [PMID: 35162148 PMCID: PMC8834257 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Food insecurity in the United States has been exacerbated due to the socioeconomic strain of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Populations experiencing poverty and, as a consequence, food insecurity in the United States are disproportionately affected by obesity, which was identified early in the pandemic as a major risk factor for increased susceptibility to COVID-19 infection and mortality. Given the focus on obesity and its role in immune dysregulation, it is also important to note the role of micronutrient deficiency, another sequalae of food insecurity. Micronutrients play an important role in the ability of the immune system to mount an appropriate response. Moreover, OBESE individuals are more likely to be micronutrient deficient. This review will explore the role of micronutrients, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc in respiratory immunity and COVID-19 and how micronutrient deficiency may be a possible confounder in obesity’s association with severe outcomes. By illuminating the role of micronutrients in COVID-19, this paper expands the discussion from food insecurity and obesity to include micronutrient deficiency and how all of these interact in respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19.
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163
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Jagielski P, Łuszczki E, Wnęk D, Micek A, Bolesławska I, Piórecka B, Kawalec P. Associations of Nutritional Behavior and Gut Microbiota with the Risk of COVID-19 in Healthy Young Adults in Poland. Nutrients 2022; 14:350. [PMID: 35057534 PMCID: PMC8779092 DOI: 10.3390/nu14020350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The numerous consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in healthy young people and the lack of clarity as to the long-term disease outcomes have spurred the search for risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection. We aimed to evaluate the associations of nutritional behaviors, gut microbiota, and physical activity with the risk of COVID-19 in healthy young nonobese people. Data on body composition, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, dietary intake, and gut microbiota were obtained from 95 adults (mean age, 34.66 ± 5.76 years). A balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruit, including nuts, wholegrain cereal products, and legumes, covers the need for vitamins and minerals. Such a diet can be an effective measure to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in nonobese healthy physically active young people with normal immune function. People with balanced diet and an average daily consumption of >500 g of vegetables and fruit and >10 g of nuts had an 86% lower risk of COVID-19 compared with those whose diet was not balanced and who consumed lower amounts of these products. It is well documented that proper nutrition, physical activity, and maintenance of normal weight facilitate good health by ensuring optimal immune function. The beneficial effects of these interventions should be strongly emphasized during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Jagielski
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-066 Krakow, Poland; (B.P.); (P.K.)
| | - Edyta Łuszczki
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland;
| | - Dominika Wnęk
- The Cracow’s Higher School of Health Promotion, 31-158 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Micek
- Department of Nursing Management and Epidemiology Nursing, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-007 Cracow, Poland;
| | - Izabela Bolesławska
- Department of Bromatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 42 Marcelińska Str., 60-354 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Beata Piórecka
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-066 Krakow, Poland; (B.P.); (P.K.)
| | - Paweł Kawalec
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-066 Krakow, Poland; (B.P.); (P.K.)
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164
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Does Oxidative Stress Management Help Alleviation of COVID-19 Symptoms in Patients Experiencing Diabetes? Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14020321. [PMID: 35057501 PMCID: PMC8780958 DOI: 10.3390/nu14020321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2 virus causes novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with other comorbidities such as diabetes. Diabetes is the most common cause of diabetic nephropathy, which is attributed to hyperglycemia. COVID-19 produces severe complications in people with diabetes mellitus. This article explains how SARS-CoV-2 causes more significant kidney damage in diabetic patients. Importantly, COVID-19 and diabetes share inflammatory pathways of disease progression. SARS-CoV-2 binding with ACE-2 causes depletion of ACE-2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) from blood vessels, and subsequently, angiotensin-II interacts with angiotensin receptor-1 from vascular membranes that produce NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen phosphate) oxidase, oxidative stress, and constriction of blood vessels. Since diabetes and COVID-19 can create oxidative stress, we hypothesize that COVID-19 with comorbidities such as diabetes can synergistically increase oxidative stress leading to end-stage renal failure and death. Antioxidants may therefore prevent renal damage-induced death by inhibiting oxidative damage and thus can help protect people from COVID-19 related comorbidities. A few clinical trials indicated how effective the antioxidant therapy is against improving COVID-19 symptoms, based on a limited number of patients who experienced COVID-19. In this review, we tried to understand how effective antioxidants (such as vitamin D and flavonoids) can act as food supplements or therapeutics against COVID-19 with diabetes as comorbidity based on recently available clinical, preclinical, or in silico studies.
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Sobczyk MK, Gaunt TR. The Effect of Circulating Zinc, Selenium, Copper and Vitamin K 1 on COVID-19 Outcomes: A Mendelian Randomization Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:233. [PMID: 35057415 PMCID: PMC8780111 DOI: 10.3390/nu14020233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims: Previous results from observational, interventional studies and in vitro experiments suggest that certain micronutrients possess anti-viral and immunomodulatory activities. In particular, it has been hypothesized that zinc, selenium, copper and vitamin K1 have strong potential for prophylaxis and treatment of COVID-19. We aimed to test whether genetically predicted Zn, Se, Cu or vitamin K1 levels have a causal effect on COVID-19 related outcomes, including risk of infection, hospitalization and critical illness. Methods: We employed a two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis. Our genetic variants derived from European-ancestry GWAS reflected circulating levels of Zn, Cu, Se in red blood cells as well as Se and vitamin K1 in serum/plasma. For the COVID-19 outcome GWAS, we used infection, hospitalization or critical illness. Our inverse-variance weighted (IVW) MR analysis was complemented by sensitivity analyses including a more liberal selection of variants at a genome-wide sub-significant threshold, MR-Egger and weighted median/mode tests. Results: Circulating micronutrient levels show limited evidence of association with COVID-19 infection, with the odds ratio [OR] ranging from 0.97 (95% CI: 0.87-1.08, p-value = 0.55) for zinc to 1.07 (95% CI: 1.00-1.14, p-value = 0.06)-i.e., no beneficial effect for copper was observed per 1 SD increase in exposure. Similarly minimal evidence was obtained for the hospitalization and critical illness outcomes with OR from 0.98 (95% CI: 0.87-1.09, p-value = 0.66) for vitamin K1 to 1.07 (95% CI: 0.88-1.29, p-value = 0.49) for copper, and from 0.93 (95% CI: 0.72-1.19, p-value = 0.55) for vitamin K1 to 1.21 (95% CI: 0.79-1.86, p-value = 0.39) for zinc, respectively. Conclusions: This study does not provide evidence that supplementation with zinc, selenium, copper or vitamin K1 can prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection, critical illness or hospitalization for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria K. Sobczyk
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK;
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Hemilä H, Chalker E. Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:62. [PMID: 35054455 PMCID: PMC8779885 DOI: 10.3390/life12010062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence has shown unambiguously that, in certain contexts, vitamin C is effective against the common cold. However, in mainstream medicine, the views on vitamin C and infections have been determined by eminence-based medicine rather than evidence-based medicine. The rejection of the demonstrated benefits of vitamin C is largely explained by three papers published in 1975-two published in JAMA and one in the American Journal of Medicine-all of which have been standard citations in textbooks of medicine and nutrition and in nutritional recommendations. Two of the papers were authored by Thomas Chalmers, an influential expert in clinical trials, and the third was authored by Paul Meier, a famous medical statistician. In this paper, we summarize several flaws in the three papers. In addition, we describe problems with two recent randomized trial reports published in JAMA which were presented in a way that misled readers. We also discuss shortcomings in three recent JAMA editorials on vitamin C. While most of our examples are from JAMA, it is not the only journal with apparent bias against vitamin C, but it illustrates the general views in mainstream medicine. We also consider potential explanations for the widespread bias against vitamin C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elizabeth Chalker
- Biological Data Science Institute, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia;
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Beneficial effects of novel aureobasidium pullulans strains produced beta-1,3-1,6 glucans on interleukin-6 and D-dimer levels in COVID-19 patients; results of a randomized multiple-arm pilot clinical study. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 145:112243. [PMID: 34840031 PMCID: PMC8463314 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this pilot clinical study, we report the beneficial effects of beta glucans derived from two strains AFO-202 and N-163 of a black yeast Aureobasidium pullulans on the biomarkers for cytokine storm and coagulopathy in COVID-19 patients. METHODS A total of 24 RT-PCR positive COVID-19 patients were recruited and randomly divided into three groups (Gr): Gr. 1 control (n = 8) - Standard treatment; Gr. 2: Standard treatment + AFO-202 beta glucan (n = 8); and Gr. 3, Standard treatment + combination of AFO-202 and N-163 beta glucans (n = 8) for 30 days. RESULTS There was no mortality or requirement of ventilation of the subjects in any of the groups. There was a decrease in D-Dimer values (751 ng/ml to 143.89 ng/ml) and IL-6 values (7.395-3.16 pg/ml) in Gr. 1 in 15 days but the levels increased to abnormal levels on day 30 (D-Dimer: 202.5 ng/ml; IL-6 55.37 pg/ml); which steadily decreased up to day 30 in groups 2 (D-dimer: 560.99 ng/dl to 79.615; IL-6: 26.18-3.41 pg/ml) and 3 (D-dimer: 1614 ng/dl to 164.25 ng/dl; IL-6: 6.25-0.5 pg/ml). The same trend was observed with ESR. LCR and LeCR increased while NLR decreased significantly in Gr. 3. CD4 + and CD8 + T cell count showed relatively higher increase in Gr.3. There was no difference in CRP within the groups. CONCLUSION As these beta glucans are well known food supplements with a track record for safety, larger multi-centric clinical studies are recommended to validate their use as an adjunct in the management of COVID-19 and the ensuing long COVID-19 syndrome.
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Al-Shatnawi SF, Khasawneh RA, Alhamad H. Healthcare Providers’ Perspectives Toward the Integration of over the Counter Supplements During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study from Jordan. INQUIRY: THE JOURNAL OF HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION, AND FINANCING 2022; 59:469580221095825. [PMID: 35503234 PMCID: PMC9069600 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221095825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: During COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers (HCPs) have been inundated with consultations related to over the counter (OTC) dietary supplements’ protective role. Thus, the present study focused on assessing HCPs perceptions toward OTC products integration during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: Pertinent data was collected using validated-online survey comprising four sections: demographics, OTC supplementation perceptions, awareness related to safety of OTC supplements, confidence in recommending dosage and counseling to patients regarding OTC supplements’ safety, and some health-related behaviors. Quantified perception score represented by corrected confidence-concern ratio was used in assessing perceptions, and associations between demographics with perception and awareness were explored. Results: A total of 600 responses were included in the final analysis. Vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D were the most popularly recommended OTC supplements. Most respondents indicated positive perceptions toward dietary supplementation while around 60% of respondents reported reluctance about the protective role of COVID-19 vaccination. Bachelor’s degree holders (AOR = 4.39, 95% CI = 2.25–10.33), pharmacists (AOR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.5–9.5), and junior HCPs (<1 year experience) had improved perceptions compared to college graduates, physicians, and senior practitioners (AOR = .17, 95% CI = .04–.78 and AOR = .15, 95% CI = .02–.93), respectively. Conclusion: Suboptimal knowledge among HCPs toward the safety and hazards associated with integration of different OTC supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic dictates further education to ensure the safe integration of OTC supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samah F. Al-Shatnawi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rawand A. Khasawneh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hamza Alhamad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
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Hafez W, Osman S, Gador M, Khair D, Aslam M. Correlation Between Plasma Vitamin C Concentration and COVID-19 Outcomes among Patients Seen at a Major Hospital in the United Arab Emirates. Int J MCH AIDS 2022; 11:e608. [PMID: 36483463 PMCID: PMC9723267 DOI: 10.21106/ijma.608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a newly emerged coronavirus that causes coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) with varying degrees of disease manifestations. Vitamin C is an essential water-soluble vitamin with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and immunomodulatory functions. The study aimed to investigate the association between serum vitamin C concentration and outcomes of COVID-19 among adults in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS This retrospective observational study included 67 COVID-19 patients aged 30-59 years old. Measurement of vitamin C levels was performed at the National Reference Laboratory, UAE using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS). The cut-off value was 0.4 mg/dl; plasma levels that ranged from 0.4 to 2 mg/dl were defined as sufficient. Values above 2 mg/dl were recognized as high and values less than 0.4 mg/dl are considered low or deficient. RESULTS Among the included patients, 58.2% suffered from vitamin C deficiency. We found a statistically significant correlation between the concentration of serum vitamin C and age (p=0.03), the presence of hypertension (p=0.013), diabetes (p=0.01), and the development of pneumonia (p=0.012). There was no significant correlation between the concentration of serum vitamin C and the need for mechanical ventilation, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, COVID-19 severity, or mortality. The risk of COVID-19 severity decreased in patients with sufficient vitamin C levels by 52% compared to patients with vitamin C deficiency (p=0.177). There was a statistically significant correlation between vitamin C sufficiency and low lactate dehydrogenase, C-reactive protein (CRP), and fibrinogen. However, the odds of vitamin C sufficiency in COVID-19 patients were significantly associated with lowering CRP levels (OR=0.99, 95% CI (0.98-1.00), p=0.024). CONCLUSION AND GLOBAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS Low serum vitamin C concentrations were associated with several demographic characteristics of patients, the presence of pneumonia, and inflammation. Furthermore, improving our social determinants, such as how we live, eat, drink, and vitamin C supplementation could positively impact the future health of the individual, community, and population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael Hafez
- Internal Medicine Department, NMC Royal Hospital, 16 Street, Khalifa City P.O. BOX 764659, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,The Medical Research Division, Department of Internal Medicine, The National Research Center, El Buhouth Street, Ad Doqi 12622, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sana Osman
- Surgical Department, NMC Royal Hospital, 16 Street, Khalifa City P.O. BOX 35233, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Muneir Gador
- Surgical Department, NMC Royal Hospital, 16 Street, Khalifa City P.O. BOX 35233, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Dina Khair
- Intensive Care Department, NMC Royal Hospital, 16 Street, Khalifa City P.O. BOX 35233, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Muhammad Aslam
- Intensive Care Department, NMC Royal Hospital, 16 Street, Khalifa City P.O. BOX 35233, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Rai D, Manjhi P. Mild COVID- 19 Infection: Do we have any Effective Drugs? A Narrative Review. MEDICAL JOURNAL OF DR. D.Y. PATIL VIDYAPEETH 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/mjdrdypu.mjdrdypu_131_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Oliveira J E Silva L, Gerberi DJ, Cummins NW, Shah AS, Bellolio F. Representativeness of Racial and Ethnic Groups in COVID-19 Outpatient Trials in the United States. Mayo Clin Proc 2022; 97:184-186. [PMID: 34996551 PMCID: PMC8554176 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2021.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Oliveira J E Silva
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Research Fellow and Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine.
| | | | - Nathan W Cummins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Aditya S Shah
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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Gutiérrez-Castrellón P, Gandara-Martí T, Abreu Y Abreu AT, Nieto-Rufino CD, López-Orduña E, Jiménez-Escobar I, Jiménez-Gutiérrez C, López-Velazquez G, Espadaler-Mazo J. Probiotic improves symptomatic and viral clearance in Covid19 outpatients: a randomized, quadruple-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Gut Microbes 2022; 14:2018899. [PMID: 35014600 PMCID: PMC8757475 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2021.2018899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal bacteria may influence lung homeostasis via the gut-lung axis. We conducted a single-center, quadruple-blinded, randomized trial in adult symptomatic Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid19) outpatients. Subjects were allocated 1:1 to probiotic formula (strains Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP022, KABP023, and KAPB033, plus strain Pediococcus acidilactici KABP021, totaling 2 × 109 colony-forming units (CFU)) or placebo, for 30 days. Co-primary endpoints included: i) proportion of patients in complete symptomatic and viral remission; ii) proportion progressing to moderate or severe disease with hospitalization, or death; and iii) days on Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Three hundred subjects were randomized (median age 37.0 years [range 18 to 60], 161 [53.7%] women, 126 [42.0%] having known metabolic risk factors), and 293 completed the study (97.7%). Complete remission was achieved by 78 of 147 (53.1%) in probiotic group compared to 41 of 146 (28.1%) in placebo (RR: 1.89 [95 CI 1.40-2.55]; P < .001), significant after multiplicity correction. No hospitalizations or deaths occurred during the study, precluding the assessment of remaining co-primary outcomes. Probiotic supplementation was well-tolerated and reduced nasopharyngeal viral load, lung infiltrates and duration of both digestive and non-digestive symptoms, compared to placebo. No significant compositional changes were detected in fecal microbiota between probiotic and placebo, but probiotic supplementation significantly increased specific IgM and IgG against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) compared to placebo. It is thus hypothesized this probiotic primarily acts by interacting with the host's immune system rather than changing colonic microbiota composition. Future studies should replicate these findings and elucidate its mechanism of action (Registration: NCT04517422).Abbreviations: AE: Adverse Event; BMI: Body Mass Index; CONSORT: CONsolidated Standards of Reporting Trials; CFU: Colony-Forming Units; eDRF: Electronic Daily Report Form; GLA: Gut-Lung Axis; GSRS: Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rating Scale; hsCRP: High-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein; HR: Hazard Ratio; ICU: Intensive Care Unit; OR: Odds Ratio; PCoA: Principal Coordinate Analysis; RR: Relative Risk; RT-qPCR: Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction; SARS-CoV2: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; SpO2: Peripheral Oxygen Saturation; WHO: World Health Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Gutiérrez-Castrellón
- Centro de Investigación Translacional en Ciencias de la Salud, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez, Ciudad de México, (CDMX), México
- International Scientific Council for Probiotics, Ciudad de México, (CDMX), México
| | - Tania Gandara-Martí
- Centro de Investigación Translacional en Ciencias de la Salud, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez, Ciudad de México, (CDMX), México
| | | | - Cesar D. Nieto-Rufino
- Centro de Investigación Translacional en Ciencias de la Salud, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez, Ciudad de México, (CDMX), México
| | | | - Irma Jiménez-Escobar
- Centro de Investigación Translacional en Ciencias de la Salud, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez, Ciudad de México, (CDMX), México
| | - Carlos Jiménez-Gutiérrez
- Centro de Investigación Translacional en Ciencias de la Salud, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez, Ciudad de México, (CDMX), México
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Berry
- British Heart Foundation Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
- Corresponding author. British Heart Foundation Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, 126 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK. Tel: +44 141 330 1671, Fax: +44 141 330 2522,
| | - Hannah K. Bayes
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board, Glasgow, UK
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Hui LL, Nelson EAS, Lin SL, Zhao JV. The role of vitamin C in pneumonia and COVID-19 infection in adults with European ancestry: a Mendelian randomisation study. Eur J Clin Nutr 2022; 76:588-591. [PMID: 34462559 PMCID: PMC8404179 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-021-00993-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High dose vitamin C infusion has been proposed to treat critically ill patients, including patients with pneumonia and severe COVID-19. However, trials have shown mixed findings. Here we assessed the unconfounded associations of vitamin C with COVID-19 and pneumonia using the Mendelian randomisation approach. METHODS This is a separate-sample Mendelian randomisation study using publicly available data. We applied single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were associated with plasma vitamin C, in a recent genome-wide association study (GWAS) as genetic instruments to the GWAS of severe COVID-19, COVID-19 hospitalisation and any infection in the COVID-19 host genetics initiative and the GWAS of pneumonia in the UK Biobank, to assess whether people with genetically predicted higher levels of plasma vitamin C had lower risk of severe COVID-19 and pneumonia. RESULTS Genetically predicted circulating levels of vitamin C was not associated with susceptibility to severe COVID-19, COVID-19 hospitalisation, any COVID-19 infection nor pneumonia. Similar results were obtained when a weighted median and MR-Egger methods were used. CONCLUSIONS Mendelian randomisation analysis provided little evidence for an association of genetically predicted circulating levels of vitamin C with COVID-19 or pneumonia and thus our findings provided little support to the use of vitamin C in prevention and treatment in these patients, unless high dose vitamin C infusion has therapeutic effects via different biological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. L. Hui
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China ,grid.16890.360000 0004 1764 6123Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - E. A. S. Nelson
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - S. L. Lin
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - J. V. Zhao
- grid.194645.b0000000121742757School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Gupta SD, Nandy M, Song DG, Pan CH. Present therapeutic and diagnostic approaches for SARS-CoV-2 infection. COMPUTATIONAL APPROACHES FOR NOVEL THERAPEUTIC AND DIAGNOSTIC DESIGNING TO MITIGATE SARS-COV-2 INFECTION 2022. [PMCID: PMC9300475 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-91172-6.00025-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The novel Coronavirus (nCoV), severe acute respiratory syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has shaken the whole world and posed significant challenges to the global healthcare system for more than a year. The scientific community across the globe is trying to combat this virus by developing a safe vaccine that can provide long-term immunity against the virus. The other means of overcoming its pathogenicity is to treat the infected people with available drugs and/or novel therapeutic strategies. The available drugs were previously designed to combat viral infections and come with tested safety. This appears to be the most practical approach as a quick response to the highly infectious pandemic with high morbidity and mortality. Although many repurposed drugs like favipiravir and hydroxychloroquine have been tried, they have been proven toxic and/or less efficacious. This has led the world to find urgent therapeutic interventions (traditional and novel), to help decrease the severity of COVID-19 infection and aim towards recovery. This chapter of the book will discuss the most up-to-date published data with respect to prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infection. Diagnosis also plays an important part in controlling the pandemic caused by the virus. A cheap, accurate and fast identification test for the virus is the need of the hour. This chapter will also throw light on the various diagnostic procedures available for the identification of SARS-CoV-2, till date, along with their advantages and disadvantages.
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Yusof YM, Haque M. Do dietary supplements help in boosting the immunity of individuals during the COVID-19 outbreak? ADVANCES IN HUMAN BIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/aihb.aihb_157_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Abstract
How to cite this article: Nath S, Baidya DK. Mucormycosis in COVID-19: Is Zinc a Silent Killer in India? Indian J Crit Care Med 2021;25(9):1079-1080.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayan Nath
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Dalim K Baidya
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
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Morales JS, Valenzuela PL, Castillo-García A, Butragueño J, Jiménez-Pavón D, Carrera-Bastos P, Lucia A. The Exposome and Immune Health in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Nutrients 2021; 14:24. [PMID: 35010900 PMCID: PMC8746533 DOI: 10.3390/nu14010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence supports the importance of lifestyle and environmental exposures-collectively referred to as the 'exposome'-for ensuring immune health. In this narrative review, we summarize and discuss the effects of the different exposome components (physical activity, body weight management, diet, sun exposure, stress, sleep and circadian rhythms, pollution, smoking, and gut microbiome) on immune function and inflammation, particularly in the context of the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We highlight the potential role of 'exposome improvements' in the prevention-or amelioration, once established-of this disease as well as their effect on the response to vaccination. In light of the existing evidence, the promotion of a healthy exposome should be a cornerstone in the prevention and management of the COVID-19 pandemic and other eventual pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier S. Morales
- MOVE-IT Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education Sciences, Universidad de Cádiz, 11519 Cadiz, Spain;
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
| | - Pedro L. Valenzuela
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (P.L.V.); (A.L.)
- Physical Activity and Health Research Group (‘PaHerg’), Research Institute of the Hospital 12 de Octubre (‘imas12′), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Javier Butragueño
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - David Jiménez-Pavón
- MOVE-IT Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education Sciences, Universidad de Cádiz, 11519 Cadiz, Spain;
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
- CIBER of Frailty and Healthy Aging (CIBERFES), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Carrera-Bastos
- Centre for Primary Health Care Research, Lund University, Skane University Hospital, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden;
- Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Lucia
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (P.L.V.); (A.L.)
- Physical Activity and Health Research Group (‘PaHerg’), Research Institute of the Hospital 12 de Octubre (‘imas12′), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- CIBER of Frailty and Healthy Aging (CIBERFES), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Ghaznavi H, Bevelacqua JJ, Mortazavi SAR, Mortazavi SMJ, Welsh JS. Comments on "Whole lung irradiation as a novel treatment for COVID-19: Interim results of an ongoing phase 2 trial in India". Radiother Oncol 2021; 167:323-324. [PMID: 34896158 PMCID: PMC8653397 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Ghaznavi
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | | | - S A R Mortazavi
- School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - S M J Mortazavi
- Medical Physics and Engineering Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
| | - James S Welsh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital Hines, United States; Department of Radiation Oncology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University, Chicago, United States.
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180
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Khan H, Patel S, Majumdar A. Role of NRF2 and Sirtuin activators in COVID-19. Clin Immunol 2021; 233:108879. [PMID: 34798239 PMCID: PMC8592856 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a pandemic requiring immediate solution for treatment because of its complex pathophysiology. Exploration of novel targets and thus treatment will be life savers which is the need of the hour. 2 host factors- TMPRSS2 and ACE2 are responsible for the way the virus will enter and replicate in the host. Also NRF2 is an important protein responsible for its anti-inflammatory role by multiple mechanisms of action like inhibition of NF-kB, suppression of pro-inflammatory genes, etc. NRF2 is deacetylated by Sirtuins and therefore both have a direct association. Absence of SIRT indicates inhibition of NRF2 expression and thus no anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory protection for the cell. Therefore, we propose that NRF2 activators and/or SIRT activators can be evaluated to check their efficacy in ameliorating the symptoms of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasnat Khan
- Department of Pharmacology, Bombay College of Pharmacy, Mumbai 400098, India
| | - Shivangi Patel
- Department of Pharmacology, Bombay College of Pharmacy, Mumbai 400098, India
| | - Anuradha Majumdar
- Department of Pharmacology, Bombay College of Pharmacy, Mumbai 400098, India.
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181
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Mollerup A, Henriksen M, Larsen SC, Bennetzen AS, Simonsen MK, Kofod LM, Knudsen JD, Nielsen XC, Weis N, Heitmann BL. Effect of PEP flute self-care versus usual care in early covid-19: non-drug, open label, randomised controlled trial in a Danish community setting. BMJ 2021; 375:e066952. [PMID: 34819329 PMCID: PMC10476062 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2021-066952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether positive expiratory pressure (PEP) by PEP flute self-care is effective in reducing respiratory symptoms among community dwelling adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection and early stage covid-19. DESIGN Non-drug, open label, randomised controlled trial. SETTING Capital Region and Region Zealand in Denmark from 6 October 2020 to 26 February 2021. PARTICIPANTS Community dwelling adults, able to perform self-care, with a new SARS-CoV-2 infection (verified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction tests) and symptoms of covid-19. INTERVENTION Participants were randomised to use PEP flute self-care in addition to usual care or have usual care only. Randomisation was based on permuted random blocks in a 1:1 ratio, stratified for sex and age (<60 or ≥60 years). The PEP self-care group was instructed to use a PEP flute three times per day during the 30 day intervention. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome was a change in symptom severity from baseline to day 30, as assessed by the self-reported COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) assessment test (CAT), which was adjusted for baseline values and stratification factors. Participants completed the CAT test questionnaire every day online. Secondary outcomes were self-reported urgent care visits due to covid-19, number of covid-19 related symptoms, and change in self-rated health, all within 30-days' follow-up. RESULTS 378 participants were assigned to the PEP flute self-care intervention (n=190) or usual care only (n=188). In the PEP self-care group, the median number of days with PEP flute use was 21 days (interquartile range 13-25). For the intention-to-treat population, a group difference was observed in changes from baseline in CAT scores of -1.2 points (95% confidence interval -2.1 to -0.2; P=0.017) in favour of the PEP flute self-care group. At day 30, the PEP flute self-care group also reported less chest tightness, less dyspnoea, more vigour, and higher level of daily activities, but these differences were small, and no consistent effects were seen on the secondary outcomes. No serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS In community dwelling adults with early covid-19, PEP flute self-care had a significant, yet marginal and uncertain clinical effect on respiratory symptom severity, as measured by CAT scores. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04530435.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Mollerup
- Parker Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- University College Diakonissestiftelsen, Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programme, Danish Deaconess Community, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Marius Henriksen
- Parker Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sofus Christian Larsen
- Parker Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Anita Selmer Bennetzen
- Parker Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Mette Kildevæld Simonsen
- Parker Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Linette Marie Kofod
- Department of Physio- and Occupational Therapy and PMR-C, Copenhagen University Hospital-Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Jenny Dahl Knudsen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Xiaohui Chen Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Zealand University Hospital, Slagelse, Denmark
| | - Nina Weis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital-Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Berit Lilienthal Heitmann
- Parker Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Boden Institute of Obesity, Nutrition, Exercise & Eating Disorders, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Section for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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182
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Rezazadeh A, Sadeghzadeh S, Namakin K, Tamimi A, Khanjani Z. The role of zinc in the pathogenesis and treatment of COVID-19: A review. MEDITERRANEAN JOURNAL OF NUTRITION AND METABOLISM 2021. [DOI: 10.3233/mnm-211524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Destructive outcomes of coronavirus pandemic call for medical research which can report all of the influential agents not only for the treatment of the disease but also preventing its severe impacts on the societal health in the most efficient manner. Zinc plays an integral role in the function of cellular enzymes and transcription factors. Owing to its anti-inflammatory and cellular immunity regulation activity, zinc is regarded to be effective on strengthening the immune system. Its crucial antiviral effects have long been established as well. Studies suggest that low serum zinc level predisposes the patient to severe COVID-19 infection, which makes patient’s zinc profile a potential determinant of prognosis and severity of this disease. Furthermore, zinc supplementation has indicated promising outcomes of coronavirus infection management. Zinc modulates cell-mediated immunity and participates in the killing of microorganisms in cytotoxic immune cells. Zn2 + has anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting IL-6 production. Although there is still not enough evidence, it seems that zinc could be a promising supplementary treatment for COVID-19 especially in zinc-deficient patients. The aim of this review is to clarify the role of zinc in pathogenesis and therapy of COVID-19 in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Rezazadeh
- Department of Community Nutrition, NationalNutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty ofNutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Behehshti Universityof Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Sadeghzadeh
- StudentResearch Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti Universityof Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kosar Namakin
- StudentResearch Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti Universityof Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atena Tamimi
- StudentResearch Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti Universityof Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Khanjani
- StudentResearch Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti Universityof Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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183
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The Role of Herbal and Nutritional Treatments in the Fight against COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Tract Infections. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182212001. [PMID: 34831757 PMCID: PMC8624644 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
With the growing spread of COVID-19 worldwide, the appeal to alternative and nutritional therapies in conjunction with medical therapies has been heightened. This article aims to review studies assessing the roles of Chinese traditional medicine and nutrition in upper respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Various Chinese herbal protocols have been shown to fight respiratory infections, with several having been tested on the novel coronavirus. Additionally, promising findings have been reported when medical treatments were complemented with nutritional interventions. Supplementation with vitamins C and D, Zinc and Selenium are discussed, in addition to certain phytochemicals and food that also possess immunoregulatory and antiviral properties. Further clinical studies are needed to establish these alternative treatments as part of the management of emerging respiratory infections.
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184
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Al-Karmalawy AA, Soltane R, Abo Elmaaty A, Tantawy MA, Antar SA, Yahya G, Chrouda A, Pashameah RA, Mustafa M, Abu Mraheil M, Mostafa A. Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Control between Drug Repurposing and Vaccination: A Comprehensive Overview. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1317. [PMID: 34835248 PMCID: PMC8622998 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory viruses represent a major public health concern, as they are highly mutated, resulting in new strains emerging with high pathogenicity. Currently, the world is suffering from the newly evolving severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This virus is the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a mild-to-severe respiratory tract infection with frequent ability to give rise to fatal pneumonia in humans. The overwhelming outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 continues to unfold all over the world, urging scientists to put an end to this global pandemic through biological and pharmaceutical interventions. Currently, there is no specific treatment option that is capable of COVID-19 pandemic eradication, so several repurposed drugs and newly conditionally approved vaccines are in use and heavily applied to control the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergence of new variants of the virus that partially or totally escape from the immune response elicited by the approved vaccines requires continuous monitoring of the emerging variants to update the content of the developed vaccines or modify them totally to match the new variants. Herein, we discuss the potential therapeutic and prophylactic interventions including repurposed drugs and the newly developed/approved vaccines, highlighting the impact of virus evolution on the immune evasion of the virus from currently licensed vaccines for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Al-Karmalawy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, New Damietta 34518, Egypt
| | - Raya Soltane
- Department of Basic Sciences, Adham University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
| | - Ayman Abo Elmaaty
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Port Said University, Port Said 42526, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Tantawy
- Hormones Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki 12622, Egypt
- Stem Cells Laboratory, Center of Excellence for Advanced Sciences, National Research Centre, Dokki 12622, Egypt
| | - Samar A Antar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, New Damietta 34518, Egypt
| | - Galal Yahya
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Amani Chrouda
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science Al-Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11932, Saudi Arabia
- Laboratory of Interfaces and Advanced Materials, Faculty of Sciences, Monastir University, Monastir 5000, Tunisia
- Institute of Analytical Sciences, UMR CNRS-UCBL-ENS 5280, 5 Rue la Doua, CEDEX, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Rami Adel Pashameah
- Department of Basic Sciences, Adham University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhamad Mustafa
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Deraya University, Minia 61111, Egypt
| | - Mobarak Abu Mraheil
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus-Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ahmed Mostafa
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus-Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- Center of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Dokki 12622, Egypt
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185
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Self-medication practices to prevent or manage COVID-19: A systematic review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259317. [PMID: 34727126 PMCID: PMC8562851 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies have assessed the prevalence and characteristics of self-medication in COVID-19. However, no systematic review has summarized their findings. Objective We conducted a systematic review to assess the prevalence of self-medication to prevent or manage COVID-19. Methods We used different keywords and searched studies published in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, two preprint repositories, Google, and Google Scholar. We included studies that reported original data and assessed self-medication to prevent or manage COVID-19. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) modified for cross-sectional studies. Results We identified eight studies, all studies were cross-sectional, and only one detailed the question used to assess self-medication. The recall period was heterogeneous across studies. Of the eight studies, seven assessed self-medication without focusing on a specific symptom: four performed in the general population (self-medication prevalence ranged between <4% to 88.3%) and three in specific populations (range: 33.9% to 51.3%). In these seven studies, the most used medications varied widely, including antibiotics, chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, acetaminophen, vitamins or supplements, ivermectin, and ibuprofen. The last study only assessed self-medication for fever due to COVID-19. Most studies had a risk of bias in the “representativeness of the sample” and “assessment of outcome” items of the NOS. Conclusions Studies that assessed self-medication for COVID-19 found heterogeneous results regarding self-medication prevalence and medications used. More well-designed and adequately reported studies are warranted to assess this topic.
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186
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Holford P, Carr AC, Zawari M, Vizcaychipi MP. Vitamin C Intervention for Critical COVID-19: A Pragmatic Review of the Current Level of Evidence. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1166. [PMID: 34833042 PMCID: PMC8624950 DOI: 10.3390/life11111166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe respiratory infections are characterized by elevated inflammation and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which may lead to a decrease in antioxidants such as vitamin C and a higher requirement for the vitamin. Administration of intravenous vitamin C to patients with pneumonia and sepsis appears to decrease the severity of the disease and potentially improve survival rate. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection causes pneumonia, sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in severe cases, and is referred to as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Patients with COVID-19 infection also appear to have depleted vitamin C status and require additional supplementation of vitamin C during the acute phase of the disease. To date there have been 12 vitamin C and COVID-19 trials published, including five randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and seven retrospective cohort studies. The current level of evidence from the RCTs suggests that intravenous vitamin C intervention may improve oxygenation parameters, reduce inflammatory markers, decrease days in hospital and reduce mortality, particularly in the more severely ill patients. High doses of oral vitamin C supplementation may also improve the rate of recovery in less severe cases. No adverse events have been reported in published vitamin C clinical trials in COVID-19 patients. Upcoming findings from larger RCTs will provide additional evidence on vitamin supplementation in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Holford
- Founder of Institute for Optimum Nutrition, Ambassador House, Richmond TW9 1SQ, UK
| | - Anitra C. Carr
- Nutrition in Medicine Research Group, Department of Pathology & Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (A.C.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Masuma Zawari
- Nutrition in Medicine Research Group, Department of Pathology & Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (A.C.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Marcela P. Vizcaychipi
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London SW7 2AZ, UK;
- Intensive Care Medicine, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, UK
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187
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Karim MM, Sultana S, Sultana R, Rahman MT. Possible Benefits of Zinc supplement in CVD and COVID-19 Comorbidity. J Infect Public Health 2021; 14:1686-1692. [PMID: 34649043 PMCID: PMC8489295 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2021.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
As far as comorbidity is concerned, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) appear to be accounted for the highest prevalence, severity, and fatality among COVID 19 patients. A wide array of causal links connecting CVD and COVID-19 baffle the overall prognosis as well as the efficacy of the given therapeutic interventions. At the centre of this puzzle lies ACE2 that works as a receptor for the SARS-CoV-2, and functional expression of which is also needed to minimize vasoconstriction otherwise would lead to high blood pressure. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 infection seems to reduce the functional expression of ACE2. Given these circumstances, it might be advisable to consider a treatment plan for COVID-19 patients with CVD in an approach that would neither aggravate the vasodeleterious arm of the renin-angiotensinogen-aldosterone system (RAAS) nor compromise the vasoprotective arm of RAAS but is effective to minimize or if possible, inhibit the viral replication. Given the immune modulatory role of Zn in both CVD and COVID-19 pathogenesis, zinc supplement to the selective treatment plan for CVD and COVID-19 comorbid conditions, to be decided by the clinicians depending on the cardiovascular conditions of the patients, might greatly improve the therapeutic outcome. Notably, ACE2 is a zinc metalloenzyme and zinc is also known to inhibit viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shahnaz Sultana
- Institute of National Analytical Research and Service (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), New Elephant Road, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Rokaia Sultana
- Institute of National Analytical Research and Service (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), New Elephant Road, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Tariqur Rahman
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia,Corresponding author
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188
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Ried K, BinJemain T, Sali A. Therapies to Prevent Progression of COVID-19, Including Hydroxychloroquine, Azithromycin, Zinc, and Vitamin D3 With or Without Intravenous Vitamin C: An International, Multicenter, Randomized Trial. Cureus 2021; 13:e19902. [PMID: 34976511 PMCID: PMC8712288 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 is a global pandemic. Treatment with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), zinc, and azithromycin (AZM), also known as the Zelenko protocol, and treatment with intravenous (IV) vitamin C (IVC) have shown encouraging results in a large number of trials worldwide. In addition, vitamin D levels are an important indicator of the severity of symptoms in patients with COVID-19. Objectives Our multicenter, randomized, open-label study aimed to assess the effectiveness of HCQ, AZM, and zinc with or without IVC in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in reducing symptom severity and duration and preventing death. Methods Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in seven participating hospitals in Turkey were screened for eligibility and randomly allocated to receive either HCQ, AZM, and zinc (group 1) or HCQ, AZM, zinc plus IV vitamin C treatment (group 2) for 14 days. The patients also received nontherapeutic levels of vitamin D3. The trial is registered on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12620000557932 and has been approved by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Results A total of 237 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 aged 22-99 years (mean: 63.3 ± 15.7 years) were enrolled in the study. Almost all patients were vitamin D deficient (97%), 55% were severely vitamin D deficient (<25 nmol/L) and 42% were vitamin D deficient (<50 nmol/L); 3% had insufficient vitamin D levels (<75 nmol/L), and none had optimal vitamin D levels. Of the patients, 73% had comorbidities, including diabetes (35%), heart disease (36%), and lung disease (34%). All but one patient (99.6%; n = 236/237) treated with HCQ, AZM, and zinc with or without high-dose IV vitamin C (IVC) fully recovered. Additional IVC therapy contributed significantly to a quicker recovery (15 days versus 45 days until discharge; p = 0.0069). Side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, reported by 15%-27% of the patients, were mild to moderate and transient. No cardiac side effects were observed. Low vitamin D levels were significantly correlated with a higher probability of admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and longer hospital stay. Sadly, one 70-year-old female patient with heart and lung disease died after 17 days in ICU and 22 days in the hospital. Her vitamin D level was 6 nmol/L on admission (i.e., severely deficient). Conclusions Our study suggests that the treatment protocol of HCQ, AZM, and zinc with or without vitamin C is safe and effective in the treatment of COVID-19, with high dose IV vitamin C leading to a significantly quicker recovery. Importantly, our study confirms vitamin D deficiency to be a high-risk factor of severe COVID-19 disease and hospitalization, with 97% of our study’s patient cohort being vitamin D deficient, 55% of these being severely vitamin D deficient, and none had optimal levels. Future trials are warranted to evaluate the treatment with a combination of high-dose vitamin D3 in addition to HCQ, AZM, and zinc and high-dose intravenous vitamin C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Ried
- NIIM Research, National Institute of Integrative Medicine, Melbourne, AUS.,Health and Nutrition, Torrens University, Melbourne, AUS.,Discipline of General Practice, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, AUS
| | - Taufiq BinJemain
- Gold Coast Clinic, National Institute of Integrative Medicine, Gold Coast, AUS
| | - Avni Sali
- NIIM Clinic, National Institute of Integrative Medicine, Melbourne, AUS
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189
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Saeed H, Osama H, Abdelrahman MA, Madney YM, Harb HS, Abdelrahim MEA, Ali F. Vitamins and other immune-supportive elements as cofactors for passing the COVID-19 pandemic. BENI-SUEF UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF BASIC AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2021; 10:71. [PMID: 34729372 PMCID: PMC8554510 DOI: 10.1186/s43088-021-00163-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral disease that causes a respiratory disorder, started in December of 2019 in China. Several vitamins and trace elements could help in enhancing host immunity producing antioxidant or anti-inflammatory action. This work aimed to identify the role of different nutrition, vitamins, and trace elements on the immunity status of the infected subject and the possibility of the beneficial role of these elements in the management of COVID-19. MAIN BODY After collecting (PubMed, scholar, OVID, Embase, Cochrane Library) and investigating published articles, testing the effect of these elements on viral infection, it was found that most of these elements have a significant role during viral infection through a different mechanism, like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulation. Nutritional interventions in COVID-19 infections are very important currently, and it was reported that vitamin C and D reduce the risk of acute respiratory infections. In addition, low vitamin A diets compromise the effectiveness of inactivated bovine coronavirus vaccines. Administration of N-acetyl cysteine showed a beneficial inhibitory effect in viral infections and enhanced glutathione production. The deficiency of selenium on COVID-19 subjects has a significant impact on the clinical outcome of the subjects. In addition, supplementation with vitamins proved to enhance immune response during viral infection. Vitamins and trace elements not only showed a beneficial effect but also Omega 3 fatty acids showed an immunomodulating effect during infections. SHORT CONCLUSIONS Assessment of levels for these trace elements at the baseline and providing supplementation containing different vitamins and elements could result in better control and clinical outcomes in the case of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitham Saeed
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Hasnaa Osama
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Mona A. Abdelrahman
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Yasmin M. Madney
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Hadeer S. Harb
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | | | - Fatma Ali
- Food Hygiene, Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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190
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Zhang C, Jin H, Wen YF, Yin G. Efficacy of COVID-19 Treatments: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Public Health 2021; 9:729559. [PMID: 34650951 PMCID: PMC8506153 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.729559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: We provided a comprehensive evaluation of efficacy of available treatments for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: We searched for candidate COVID-19 studies in WHO COVID-19 Global Research Database up to August 19, 2021. Randomized controlled trials for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients published on peer-reviewed journals were included, regardless of demographic characteristics. Outcome measures included mortality, mechanical ventilation, hospital discharge and viral clearance. Bayesian network meta-analysis with fixed effects was conducted to estimate the effect sizes using posterior means and 95% equal-tailed credible intervals (CrIs). Odds ratio (OR) was used as the summary measure for treatment effect. Bayesian hierarchical models were used to estimate effect sizes of treatments grouped by the treatment classifications. Results: We identified 222 eligible studies with a total of 102,950 patients. Compared with the standard of care, imatinib, intravenous immunoglobulin and tocilizumab led to lower risk of death; baricitinib plus remdesivir, colchicine, dexamethasone, recombinant human granulocyte colony stimulating factor and tocilizumab indicated lower occurrence of mechanical ventilation; tofacitinib, sarilumab, remdesivir, tocilizumab and baricitinib plus remdesivir increased the hospital discharge rate; convalescent plasma, ivermectin, ivermectin plus doxycycline, hydroxychloroquine, nitazoxanide and proxalutamide resulted in better viral clearance. From the treatment class level, we found that the use of antineoplastic agents was associated with fewer mortality cases, immunostimulants could reduce the risk of mechanical ventilation and immunosuppressants led to higher discharge rates. Conclusions: This network meta-analysis identified superiority of several COVID-19 treatments over the standard of care in terms of mortality, mechanical ventilation, hospital discharge and viral clearance. Tocilizumab showed its superiority compared with SOC on preventing severe outcomes such as death and mechanical ventilation as well as increasing the discharge rate, which might be an appropriate treatment for patients with severe or mild/moderate illness. We also found the clinical efficacy of antineoplastic agents, immunostimulants and immunosuppressants with respect to the endpoints of mortality, mechanical ventilation and discharge, which provides valuable information for the discovery of potential COVID-19 treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Zhang
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huaqing Jin
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yi Feng Wen
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guosheng Yin
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Department of Biostatistics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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191
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Speakman LL, Michienzi SM, Badowski ME. Vitamins, supplements and COVID-19: a review of currently available evidence. Drugs Context 2021; 10:2021-6-2. [PMID: 34659426 PMCID: PMC8496749 DOI: 10.7573/dic.2021-6-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an information overload of health data (both accurate and inaccurate) available to the public. With vitamins and supplements being readily accessible, many have turned to using them in an effort to combat the virus. The purpose of this review was to analyse clinical trials regarding vitamins and supplements for the treatment of COVID-19 infections. METHODS Articles were identified through a literature search utilizing online databases and bibliographic review. RESULTS A total of seven articles were identified for review. All articles evaluated the use of vitamins and supplements for the treatment of COVID-19. Drug therapies included oral vitamin D, intravenous and oral vitamin C, oral vitamin D/magnesium/vitamin B12, oral zinc, oral combination zinc/ascorbic acid, and intravenous alpha-lipoic acid. The end points of each study varied, including the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, mortality, rate of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, negativity of COVID-19 tests, oxygen requirements, and symptom burden. CONCLUSION Of the vitamins and supplements that were studied, vitamin D presented the most promising data demonstrating significant decreases in oxygen requirements, need for ICU treatment, SARS-CoV-2 RNA test positivity, and mortality. All of these benefits were exhibited in hospitalized patients. Other vitamins and supplements that were evaluated in studies did not demonstrate any statistically significant benefits. Common shortcomings of the articles included generally small sample sizes, varying sites of study (which could determine the virus variant), a lack of standard of care as background therapy, and utilization of doses that were higher than standard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren L Speakman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sarah M Michienzi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Melissa E Badowski
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, USA
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192
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Zolezzi M, Paravattil B, El-Gaili T. Using motivational interviewing techniques to inform decision-making for COVID-19 vaccination. Int J Clin Pharm 2021; 43:1728-1734. [PMID: 34599721 PMCID: PMC8486954 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-021-01334-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Motivational interviewing is a patient-centered communication style used to enhance a person’s internal motivation for attitudinal change by exploring and solving inherent ambivalences. In the face of rising COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, pharmacists and other health care professionals may use motivational interviewing to enable individuals making informed decisions with regards to the COVID-19 vaccines. The purpose of this article is to integrate theory with practice by describing a scenario that illustrates how motivational interviewing skills and strategies can be used to reduce COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Zolezzi
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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193
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Muthu V, Kumar M, Paul RA, Zohmangaihi D, Choudhary H, Rudramurthy SM, Panda NK, Pannu AK, Sharma N, Sharma S, Chakrabarti A, Agarwal R. Is there an association between zinc and COVID-19-associated mucormycosis? Results of an experimental and clinical study. Mycoses 2021; 64:1291-1297. [PMID: 34420245 PMCID: PMC8661931 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The enormous increase in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) in India lacks an explanation. Zinc supplementation during COVID-19 management is speculated as a contributor to mucormycosis. We conducted an experimental and clinical study to explore the association of zinc and mucormycosis. METHODS We inoculated pure isolates of Rhizopus arrhizus obtained from subjects with CAM on dichloran rose Bengal chloramphenicol (DRBC) agar enriched with (three different concentrations) and without zinc. At 24 h, we counted the viable colonies and measured the dry weight of colonies at 24, 48 and 72 h. We also compared the clinical features and serum zinc levels in 29 CAM cases and 28 COVID-19 subjects without mucormycosis (controls). RESULTS We tested eight isolates of R arrhizus and noted a visible increase in growth in zinc-enriched media. A viable count percentage showed a significantly increased growth in four of the eight isolates in zinc-augmented DRBC agar. A time- and concentration-dependent increase in the mean fungal biomass with zinc was observed in all three isolates tested. We enrolled 29 cases of CAM and 28 controls. The mean serum zinc concentration was below the reference range in all the subjects and was not significantly different between the cases and controls. CONCLUSIONS Half of the R arrhizus isolates grew better with zinc enrichment in vitro. However, our study does not conclusively support the hypothesis that zinc supplementation contributed to the pathogenesis of mucormycosis. More data, both in vitro and in vivo, may resolve the role of zinc in the pathogenesis of CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valliappan Muthu
- Department of Pulmonary MedicinePost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Mohan Kumar
- Department of Internal MedicinePost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Raees A. Paul
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyPost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Deepy Zohmangaihi
- Department of BiochemistryPost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Hansraj Choudhary
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyPost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | | | - Naresh K. Panda
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck SurgeryPost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Ashok Kumar Pannu
- Department of Internal MedicinePost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Navneet Sharma
- Department of Internal MedicinePost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Sadhna Sharma
- Department of BiochemistryPost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Arunaloke Chakrabarti
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyPost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
| | - Ritesh Agarwal
- Department of Pulmonary MedicinePost Graduate Institute of Medical Education and ResearchChandigarhIndia
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194
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Puścion-Jakubik A, Bielecka J, Grabia M, Mielech A, Markiewicz-Żukowska R, Mielcarek K, Moskwa J, Naliwajko SK, Soroczyńska J, Gromkowska-Kępka KJ, Nowakowski P, Socha K. Consumption of Food Supplements during the Three COVID-19 Waves in Poland-Focus on Zinc and Vitamin D. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13103361. [PMID: 34684363 PMCID: PMC8538476 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Food supplements (FS) are a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, or other ingredients with nutritional or other physiological effects. Due to their easy availability, widespread advertising, and sometimes low price, increased consumption of this group of preparations has been observed. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and intake of FS during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland, with particular reference to FS containing zinc and vitamin D. It was noted that both of the above ingredients were used significantly more often by people with higher education (59.0%), with a medical background or related working in the medical field (54.5%), and/or exercising at home (60.1%). Preparations containing vitamin D were used by 22.8% of the respondents in the first wave, 37.6% in the second wave, and 32.9% in the third wave. To sum up, we showed the highest consumption of vitamin and mineral supplements, and preparations containing zinc and vitamin D were taken significantly more often by people with higher medical and related education. This indicates a high awareness of health aspects and the need for preventive measures in these groups.
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195
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Recovery Focused Nutritional Therapy across the Continuum of Care: Learning from COVID-19. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13093293. [PMID: 34579171 PMCID: PMC8472175 DOI: 10.3390/nu13093293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted nutritional therapy should be started early in severe illness and sustained through to recovery if clinical and patient-centred outcomes are to be optimised. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has shone a light on this need. The literature on nutrition and COVID-19 mainly focuses on the importance of nutrition to preserve life and prevent clinical deterioration during the acute phase of illness. However, there is a lack of information guiding practice across the whole patient journey (e.g., hospital to home) with a focus on targeting recovery (e.g., long COVID). This review paper is of relevance to doctors and other healthcare professionals in acute care and primary care worldwide, since it addresses early, multi-modal individualised nutrition interventions across the continuum of care to improve COVID-19 patient outcomes. It is of relevance to nutrition experts and non-nutrition experts and can be used to promote inter-professional and inter-organisational knowledge transfer on the topic. The primary goal is to prevent complications and support recovery to enable COVID-19 patients to achieve the best possible nutritional, physical, functional and mental health status and to apply the learning to date from the COVID-19 pandemic to other patient groups experiencing acute severe illness.
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196
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Boretti A, Banik BK. Zinc role in Covid-19 disease and prevention. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 23:147-150. [PMID: 34512221 PMCID: PMC8421103 DOI: 10.1016/j.vacun.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Boretti
- Deanship of Research, Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Al Khobar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Bimal K Banik
- Deanship of Research, Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Al Khobar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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197
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Al Sulaiman K, Aljuhani O, Saleh KB, Badreldin HA, Al Harthi A, Alenazi M, Alharbi A, Algarni R, Al Harbi S, Alhammad AM, Vishwakarma R, Aldekhyl S. Ascorbic acid as an adjunctive therapy in critically ill patients with COVID-19: a propensity score matched study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17648. [PMID: 34480041 PMCID: PMC8417267 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96703-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascorbic acid represents an appealing option for clinicians to utilize in the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic due to its proposed clinical efficacy, relative safety, and low cost. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using ascorbic acid in supplemental doses as adjunctive therapy for patients critically ill with COVID-19. This was a two-center, non-interventional, retrospective cohort study. All critically ill adult patients admitted to ICU with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis between March 1st and December 31st, 2020, were included in the final analysis. The study was conducted at two large governmental tertiary hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The purpose was to investigate the clinical outcomes of low-dose ascorbic acid as adjunctive therapy in COVID-19 after propensity score matching using baseline severity scores, systematic use of corticosteroids, and study centers. A number of 739 patients were included in this study, among whom 296 patients were included after propensity score matching. There was no association between the administration of ascorbic acid and in-hospital mortality or the 30-day mortality [OR (95% CI) 0.77 (0.47, 1.23), p value = 0.27 and OR (95% CI) 0.73 (0.43, 1.20), p value = 0.21, respectively]. Using ascorbic acid was associated with a lower incidence of thrombosis compared with the non-ascorbic-acid group [6.1% vs. 13% respectively; OR (95% CI) 0.42 (0.184, 0.937), p value = 0.03]. Low dose of ascorbic acid as an adjunctive therapy in COVID-19 critically ill patients was not associated with mortality benefits, but it was associated with a lower incidence of thrombosis. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Al Sulaiman
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC)-Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, PO Box 22490, Riyadh, 11426, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ohoud Aljuhani
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Bin Saleh
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC)-Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, PO Box 22490, Riyadh, 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hisham A Badreldin
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC)-Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, PO Box 22490, Riyadh, 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Al Harthi
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC)-Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, PO Box 22490, Riyadh, 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alenazi
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aisha Alharbi
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahmah Algarni
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shmeylan Al Harbi
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC)-Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, PO Box 22490, Riyadh, 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah M Alhammad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramesh Vishwakarma
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Aldekhyl
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Intensive Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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198
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Salgo MP. COVID-19: Zinc and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) Deficiencies as Determinants of Risk and Severity of Disease: A Narrative Review. Infect Dis Ther 2021; 10:1215-1225. [PMID: 34251655 PMCID: PMC8273847 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-021-00478-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence supports the premise that deficiencies of zinc and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2, a zinc enzyme) determine severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). ACE2 is part of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and acts as a feedback control system moderating blood pressure, keeping blood pressure within normal limits. For a virus to infect a person, the virus has to get inside the person's cells. The virus that causes COVID-19 uses ACE2 to get into the cell. Think of this like an invader from outer space attacking your car by getting in through your cruise control; the RAS is like the cruise control of your car. What happens next depends on how robust your cruise control is. If your cruise control is young and healthy perhaps very little happens; your car may slow down or speed up a bit. But if your cruise control is in poor condition the attack might disrupt the entire speed control system; your car may brake suddenly or speed out of control and crash. Feedback control systems (natural or man-made) are designed to keep dynamic systems in control, but under certain situations can drive the system completely out of control. The RAS is composed of two feedback loops: the ACE loop provides amplification, increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and blood pressure; the ACE2 loop provides fine control and mitigates the vasoconstrictive, pro-inflammatory, and thrombotic actions of the ACE loop. Usually, there is balance, but in the setting of COVID-19, underlying deficiencies of zinc and ACE2 can lead to an imbalance. Exacerbated by the severe downregulation of ACE2 seen with viral entry, a "tipping point" is reached with loss of control of the RAS system resulting in increased angiotensin II (Ang II) causing downstream vasoconstriction, inflammation, and thromboses. These, in turn, lead to complications often seen in "severe COVID-19" such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or cytokine storm, often seen in high-risk patients in the second week of illness. This model suggests that supplemental zinc could replenish zinc in ACE2, stabilize the ACE2 axis, and prevent disruption of the RAS. This would prevent the vasoconstrictive, inflammatory, and thrombotic actions of Ang II, thus preventing the severe COVID-19 complications which cause the high morbidity and mortality seen in high-risk patients with underlying zinc deficiency. Zinc supplements are available, easy to use, and relatively safe. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy of zinc supplementation to decrease severity of and morality from COVID-19 in high-risk patients. Since replenishment of zinc and active ACE2 in patients in whom these are deficient may take weeks, supplementation in high-risk populations prior to COVID infection may be required. Such supplementation should not replace vaccination but may be useful in populations for whom vaccination is not available or for populations exposed to viral variants to which available vaccines have insufficient coverage.
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199
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Tomasa-Irriguible TM, Bielsa-Berrocal L, Bordejé-Laguna L, Tural-Llàcher C, Barallat J, Manresa-Domínguez JM, Torán-Monserrat P. Low Levels of Few Micronutrients May Impact COVID-19 Disease Progression: An Observational Study on the First Wave. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11090565. [PMID: 34564381 PMCID: PMC8467487 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11090565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We report an observational study performed between March and May 2020 in a Spanish university hospital during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The main objective was to analyse the association between the levels of micronutrients in severe COVID-19 patients and their outcome. Adult patients with a positive polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) for SARS-CoV-2 in the nasopharyngeal swab or in tracheal aspirate culture in the case of intubation were included. Micronutrient data were obtained from plasma analysis of a standard nutritional assessment performed within the first 24 h of hospital admission. Vitamins A, B6, C and E were analysed with HPLC methods; 25-OH-vitamin D by immunoassay and zinc by colorimetric measurements. One hundred and twenty patients were included. We found that 74.2% patients had low levels of zinc (normal levels >84 µg/dL) with a mean value of 63.5 (SD 13.5); 71.7% patients had low levels of vitamin A (normal levels >0.3 mg/L) with a mean value of 0.17 (SD 0.06); 42.5% patients had low levels of vitamin B6 (normal levels >3.6 ng/mL) with a mean value of 2.2 (SD 0.9); 100% patients had low levels of vitamin C (normal levels >0.4 mg/dL) with a mean value of 0.14 (SD 0.05); 74.3% patients had low values of vitamin D (normal levels >20 ng/mL) with mean value of 11.4 (SD 4.3); but only 5.8% of patients had low levels of vitamin E (normal levels >5 mg/L) with a mean value of 3.95 (SD 0.87). The variables associated with the need for ICU admission were low levels of zinc (standard error 0.566, 95% CI 0.086 to 0.790, p = 0.017), low levels of vitamin A (standard error 0.582, 95% CI 0.061 to 0.594, p = 0.004), age over 65 (standard error 0.018, 95% CI 0.917 to 0.985, p = 0.005) and male gender (standard error 0.458, 95% CI 1.004 to 6.040, p = 0.049). The only variable that was independently associated with the need for orotracheal intubation was low levels of vitamin A (standard error 0.58, 95% CI 0.042 to 0.405, p = 0.000). Conclusions: Low levels of vitamin A and zinc are associated with a greater need for admission to the ICU and orotracheal intubation. Patients older than 65 years had higher mortality. Randomized clinical trials are needed to examine whether micronutrient supplementation could be beneficial as an adjunctive treatment in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa-Maria Tomasa-Irriguible
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (L.B.-B.); (L.B.-L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lara Bielsa-Berrocal
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (L.B.-B.); (L.B.-L.)
| | - Luisa Bordejé-Laguna
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (L.B.-B.); (L.B.-L.)
| | - Cristina Tural-Llàcher
- Internal Medicine Department, University Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain;
| | - Jaume Barallat
- Biochemical Department, University Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain;
| | - Josep-Maria Manresa-Domínguez
- North Metropolitan Research Support Unit, Jordi Gol i Gurina Foundation Institute for Research in Primary Health Care (IDIAPJGol), 08303 Mataró, Spain; (J.-M.M.-D.); (P.T.-M.)
| | - Pere Torán-Monserrat
- North Metropolitan Research Support Unit, Jordi Gol i Gurina Foundation Institute for Research in Primary Health Care (IDIAPJGol), 08303 Mataró, Spain; (J.-M.M.-D.); (P.T.-M.)
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200
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de Oliveira AA, Priviero F, Lima VV, Webb RC, Nunes KP. COVID-19 and ROS Storm: What is the Forecast for Hypertension. Am J Hypertens 2021; 34:779-782. [PMID: 34431501 PMCID: PMC8385570 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hpab085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda A de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology, Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering and Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, USA
| | - Fernanda Priviero
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Victor V Lima
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - R Clinton Webb
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kenia P Nunes
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology, Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering and Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, USA
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