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Faghy MA, Duncan R, Hume E, Gough L, Roscoe C, Laddu D, Arena R, Asthon REM, Dalton C. Developing effective strategies to optimize physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness in the long Covid population- The need for caution and objective assessment. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2024; 83:62-70. [PMID: 38460898 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
The Post Covid-19 Condition (commonly known as Long Covid) has been defined by the World Health Organisation as occurring in individuals with a history of probable or confirmed SARS CoV 2 infection, usually within 3 months from the onset of acute Covid-19 infection with symptoms that last for at least two months which cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. Long Covid is associated with over two hundred recognised symptoms and affects tens of millions of people worldwide. Widely reported reductions in quality of life(QoL) and functional status are caused by extremely sensitive and cyclical symptom profiles that are augmented following exposure to physical, emotional, orthostatic, and cognitive stimuli. This manifestation prevents millions of people from engaging in routine activities of daily living (ADLs) and has important health and well-being, social and economic impacts. Post-exertional symptom exacerbation (PESE) (also known as post-exertional malaise) is an exacerbation in the severity of fatigue and other symptoms following physical, emotional, orthostatic and cognitive tasks. Typically, this will occur 24-72 h after "over-exertion" and can persist for several days and even weeks. It is a hallmark symptom of Long Covid with a reported prevalence of 86%. The debilitating nature of PESE prevents patients from engaging in physical activity which impacts functional status and QoL. In this review, the authors present an update to the literature relating to PESE in Long Covid and make the case for evidence-based guidelines that support the design and implementation of safe rehabilitation approaches for people with Long Covid. This review also considers the role of objective monitoring to quantify a patient's response to external stimuli which can be used to support the safe management of Long Covid and inform decisions relating to engagement with any stimuli that could prompt an exacerbation of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Faghy
- Biomedical and Clinical Exercise Science Research Theme, University of Derby, Derby, UK; Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection Network (HL-Pivot), Illinois, Chicago, USA.
| | - Rae Duncan
- Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK
| | - Emily Hume
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lewis Gough
- School of Health Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Clare Roscoe
- Biomedical and Clinical Exercise Science Research Theme, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Deepika Laddu
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection Network (HL-Pivot), Illinois, Chicago, USA; Department of Physical Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Ross Arena
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection Network (HL-Pivot), Illinois, Chicago, USA; Department of Physical Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Ruth E M Asthon
- Biomedical and Clinical Exercise Science Research Theme, University of Derby, Derby, UK; Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection Network (HL-Pivot), Illinois, Chicago, USA
| | - Caroline Dalton
- Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
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Monye IN, Makinde MT, Oseni TIA, Adelowo AB, Nyirenda S. Covid-19 and Pre-Morbid Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors-A Review. Health Serv Insights 2023; 16:11786329231215049. [PMID: 38046558 PMCID: PMC10691316 DOI: 10.1177/11786329231215049] [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] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its outbreak in December 2019 in China, COVID-19 has spread like wild fire to affect many communities of the world. The high infectivity and case fatality rates of the disease among the general population and the severely ill patients respectively drew the attention of the global community. Our review showed that socio-demographic and lifestyle-related risk factors and underlying comorbid diseases were directly and indirectly associated with increased susceptibility and severity of COVID-19. These factors included older age (⩾60 years), male gender, and ethnic minority groups (especially blacks), smoking, low serum level of vitamin D, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity (with poor exposure to sunlight), overweight/obesity, high blood pressure/hypertension, high blood cholesterol, cardiovascular diseases (like stroke and coronary heart disease), diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, and some cancers (like leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma). The literature further revealed that the clinical progression of the majority of these associated risk factors can be modified through effective and comprehensive risk reduction through healthy living and lifestyle modification. COVID-19 preventive and treatment guidelines that give adequate attention to risk reduction and healthy lifestyle among people-either in the pre-, peri-, or post-COVID-19 stage, should be developed by public health policymakers and clinicians. This will play a significant role in the global effort to combat the pandemic, and reduce its negative impact on the life expectancy and socio-economic development of the world particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeoma N Monye
- Brookfield Clinics Centre for Lifestyle Medicine/Department of Family Medicine, National Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Moyosore Taiwo Makinde
- Department of Family Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Tijani Idris Ahmad Oseni
- Department of Family Medicine, Ambrose Alli university, Ekpoma, Nigeria
- Lifestyle and Behavioural Medicine Unit, Department of Family Medicine, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Nigeria
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Çürük GN, Karadağ S, Özgül E. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Methods Used by Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Holist Nurs Pract 2023; 37:260-267. [PMID: 37595118 DOI: 10.1097/hnp.0000000000000602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to determine complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods used by older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample for this descriptive study comprised 415 adults older than 65 years who completed an online questionnaire between August and October 2020. The study used descriptive statistical methods and a χ2 test for the statistical analysis of data. In the study, 55.4% of participants had used one or more CAM methods during the pandemic. The most frequently used methods were vitamin and mineral supplements (48.5%) and herbal products (37.2%). The study determined that 43.1% of participants did not inform their health care professionals of the method they had used. It is possible that the use of CAM methods by older adults during the pandemic and the decrease in the frequency of seeking care at health care institutions could complicate the management of health problems related to the use of CAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülsüm Nihal Çürük
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, Turkey (Dr Çürük and Ms Özgül); and Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey (Dr Karadağ)
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Investigation of supplement products preferred by healthcare professionals during COVID-19 pandemic process. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY MEDICINE 2023. [DOI: 10.16899/jcm.1175032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Various products are used to strengthen immunity in prevention and treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the whole world, which has no cure yet, and the vaccine has just been used. This study was planned to learn about the supplements used by healthcare professionals. Methods: A questionnaire was applied to the physicians, nurses, technicians, secretaries, and staff working in the operating room, intensive care, ward, and outpatient clinic by e-mail, WhatsApp, or face-to-face interview method. Results: There was no difference between the groups in terms of being COVID-19-positive. The most used products were primarily Mg and vitamin D, and vitamin C, ginger, Zn, turmeric, green tea, vitamin complex, thyme, black elderberry (sambucus nigra), propolis, prebiotic/probiotic, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), black cumin (niger sativa), N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), selenium (Se), Coenzyme-Q10, cinnamon, glutathione (GSH) and quercetin respectively. No one had used alpha lipoic acid (ALA). The products that showed significant differences between the groups with and without COVID-19 were vitamin C, prebiotic/probiotic, propolis and ASA. Conclusıon: Since it is not asked when the product is used, although it is not possible to evaluate its effectiveness for preventive or therapeutic purposes, known to be natural, inexpensive, and easily accessible antiviral products may be preferred.
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Jeitler M, Erehman A, Koppold DA, Ortiz M, Jerzynski L, Stöckigt B, Rotter G, Blakeslee S, Brinkhaus B, Michalsen A, Seifert G, Cramer H, Kandil FI, Kessler CS. Self-care and lifestyle interventions of complementary and integrative medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic-A cross-sectional study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1033181. [PMID: 36698795 PMCID: PMC9868272 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1033181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Complementary and Integrative Medicine (CIM), including self-care healthy life-style promotion strategies, is widely used in Germany. Aim of this study was to assess the use of self-care and lifestyle interventions as well as mental/emotional state experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods An exploratory cross-sectional online study was conducted with adults in Germany through an online survey. Custom-developed questions in respiratory disease-status (including COVID-19), CIM-based self-care/lifestyle interventions and dietary patterns, and mental/emotional state as well as parameters for wellbeing (World Health Organization Well-Being Index, WHO-5) and self-efficacy (General Self-Efficacy Short Scale, GSE-3) were assessed. Data was analyzed using frequency and parametric measures. Results The online survey was performed from January to March 2021 and included 1,138 participants (81.5% female; mean age: 49.2 ± 13.7 years; 54.9% holding a university degree) living in Germany, of which 62 had had a positive SARS-CoV-2 test, 4 an influenza infection and 375 participants other respiratory infections. The following individual health promotion strategies were reported: spending time in nature (90%; n = 1,024), physical activity (69.3%; n = 789), naturopathic remedies (63.1%; n = 718), plant-based diet (56.3%; n = 640), and Mind-Body interventions (54.7%; n = 623). No differences in strategies between individuals with respiratory diseases or the sample overall were found. Well-being had a mean value of 15.2 ± 5 (WHO-5) and self-efficacy 4.1 ± 0.6 (GSE-3). Nearly 8% reported a low mental/emotional state regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion Self-care and lifestyle interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic were reported by participants who were predominantly female, middle-aged, and well-educated. Most participants showed an overall balanced mental/emotional state. Further studies should include a representative control group from the general population. Clinical trial registration clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04653727.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Jeitler
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany,Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany,*Correspondence: Michael Jeitler,
| | - Avital Erehman
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniela A. Koppold
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany,Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Miriam Ortiz
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lea Jerzynski
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Stöckigt
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriele Rotter
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sarah Blakeslee
- Department of Paediatric Oncology/Haematology, Otto-Heubner Centre for Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine (OHC), Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Benno Brinkhaus
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Michalsen
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany,Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Georg Seifert
- Department of Paediatric Oncology/Haematology, Otto-Heubner Centre for Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine (OHC), Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Departamento de Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Tratamento do Câncer Infatil (ITACI), Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Holger Cramer
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany,Institute for General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany,Bosch Health Campus, Stuttgart, Germany,National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Farid I. Kandil
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany,Department of Paediatric Oncology/Haematology, Otto-Heubner Centre for Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine (OHC), Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian S. Kessler
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany,Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Veljković M, Pavlović DR, Stojanović NM, Džopalić T, Popović Dragonjić L. Behavioral and Dietary Habits That Could Influence Both COVID-19 and Non-Communicable Civilization Disease Prevention-What Have We Learned Up to Now? MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:1686. [PMID: 36422225 PMCID: PMC9695647 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
The massive expansion of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has urged countries to introduce lockdowns and set restrictive actions worldwide. The focus of the studies was to determine how COVID-19 induces damage to the lungs in order to find an alternative or adjuvant therapy that could lead to preventing COVID-19 or at least ameliorating it. This paper aims to survey the literature and provide new insights into behavioral and dietary habits that could influence the prevention of COVID-19. Maintaining an adequate mental health status, sleep, and taking moderate exercise are often disrupted in the conditions of lockdown and are followed by weakened immunity. Mediterranean and vegetarian diets are superior to other eating patterns in terms of immunity boosting and fighting COVID-19. Our study showed how adequate hydration, green tea intake, and supplementation with vitamins D, C, and E can increase our chances of avoiding the infection and even help us sleep better. Another focus of the research was on determining what level of hygiene really increases one's chances of not contracting SARS-CoV-2, but this seems a little counter-intuitive at first. Since an immunocompromised state is a familiar predisposing factor for all contagious diseases, maintaining healthy behavioral and dietary habits could be a crucial step in boosting immunity and preventing COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Veljković
- Department of Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Dragana R. Pavlović
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | | | - Tanja Džopalić
- Department of Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Lidija Popović Dragonjić
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
- Clinic for Infectology, University Clinical Center Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
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Ozlem Zurnaci F, Guzel M. The Effects of Increased Glucose Level and the Role of Glycolysis on SARS CoV-2 Infection. Mini Rev Med Chem 2022; 22:2344-2349. [DOI: 10.2174/1389557522666220318115350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Abstract:
Covid-19 has entered our lives for a long time as an infection with high mortality rates. Although the vaccination process has provided benefits, the death toll remains to be frightening worldwide. Therefore, drugs and combined therapies that can be used against Covid-19 infection are still being investigated. Most of these antiviral medications are investigational drug candidates which are still in clinical trials. In this context, holistic and different approaches for the treatment of Covid-19 including prophylactic use of natural medicines are under investigation and may offer potential treatment options due to the fact that this is still an unmet medical need in the world. Thus, inhibiting the increased glycolysis on Covid-19 infection with glycolysis inhibitors may be beneficial for patient survival. This short review highlights the potential benefits of glycolysis inhibition as well as controlling the elevated glucose levels in patients with the treatment of Covid-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Ozlem Zurnaci
- Istanbul Medipol University, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Center of Drug Discovery and Development, Kavacik-Beykoz/Istanbul, 34810, Turkey.
- Istanbul Medipol University, Health Sciences Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology, Kavacik Campus, Kavacik-Beykoz/ISTANBUL 34810, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Guzel
- Istanbul Medipol University, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Center of Drug Discovery and Development, Kavacik-Beykoz/Istanbul, 34810, Turkey.
- Istanbul Medipol University, Health Sciences Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology, Kavacik Campus, Kavacik-Beykoz/ISTANBUL 34810, Turkey
- Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology, Kavacik Campus, Kavacik-Beykoz/ISTANBUL 34810, Turkey
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Kristoffersen AE, van der Werf ET, Stub T, Musial F, Wider B, Jong MC, Wode K, Danell JAB, Busch M, Hoenders HJR, Nordberg JH. Consultations with health care providers and use of self-management strategies for prevention and treatment of COVID-19 related symptoms. A population based cross-sectional study in Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands. Complement Ther Med 2022; 64:102792. [PMID: 34826590 PMCID: PMC8609665 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study was initiated to determine consultations with health care providers and use of self-management strategies for prevention or treatment of COVID-19 related symptoms in countries with a full lockdown (Norway), a partial lockdown (the Netherlands) and no lockdown (Sweden) during the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic, and if such use correlates with worries of being infected by COVID-19 disease. DESIGN Data were collected in collaboration with Ipsos A/S in April-June 2020. An adapted version of the International Questionnaire to measure use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (I-CAM-Q) was used with the categories "for prevention of COVID-19" and "to treat COVID-19-related symptoms" added. Data were collected among a representative sample in Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands using data assisted telephone interviews (Norway, n=990 and Sweden, n=500), and an online survey (the Netherlands, n=1004). Total response rate was 30%. RESULTS Very few consulted a health care provider with the intention to treat or prevent COVID-19 (1.2% and 1.0% respectively) with medical doctors mostly visited (1.0% and 0.9% respectively). Similarly, the use of self-management strategies to prevent or treat COVID-19 was low (3.4% and 0.2% respectively); most commonly used for prevention of COVID-19 were vitamins and minerals (2.8%). Consultations with health care providers and use of self-management strategies for prevention of COVID-19 were positively associated with worries of being infected with COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic does not seem to have evoked a large-scale difference in behavior related to consultations with health care providers or the use of self-management strategies in any of the three countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnete E Kristoffersen
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Esther T van der Werf
- Louis Bolk Institute, Bunnik, the Netherlands; The Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health (CIZG), the Netherlands
| | - Trine Stub
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Frauke Musial
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Barbara Wider
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Miek C Jong
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Kathrin Wode
- Regional Cancer Center Stockholm Gotland, Stockholm, Sweden; Department Radiation Sciences Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Department of Upper Abdominal Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Martine Busch
- The Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health (CIZG), the Netherlands; Van Praag Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - H J Rogier Hoenders
- The Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health (CIZG), the Netherlands; Center for Integrative Psychiatry, Lentis, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Johanna H Nordberg
- Regional Cancer Center Stockholm Gotland, Stockholm, Sweden; Karolinska Institutet, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Divison of Nursing & Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Stockholm, Sweden
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Mulder LTC, Busch M, Kristoffersen AE, Hök Nordberg J, van der Werf ET. Prevalence and predictive factors of complementary medicine use during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 in the Netherlands. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:43. [PMID: 35168630 PMCID: PMC8845358 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03528-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Major life changing events such as the COVID-19 pandemic may have major impact on one’s health and general well-being. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictive factors, including gender specific differences, of Complementary Medicine (CM) use (including CM consultations, self-care management and self-help techniques) during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 in the Netherlands. Methods CM use was studied among a random representative sample (n = 1004) of the adult Dutch population using an online survey conducted from 22–27 May 2020. The survey included a modified version of I-CAM-Q and additional questions on demographic characteristics, reasons for CM use, perceived effectiveness and side effects. Results 68.0% of the participants reported to have used CM (CM consultations (13.3%), self-management strategies (59.4%), self-help techniques (30.0%)). Most frequently reported reason of CM use was to improve general well-being (61.6%), prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19 was only reported by 10%. Perceived effectiveness of CM was high and number of experienced side effects low. Being a women, worried to get infected with COVID-19, higher education and living in northern/ middle region of the Netherlands were predictive factors to use CM. Conclusions In the Netherlands, specific groups (e.g. women/ highly educated) use CM, mainly to improve general wellbeing, and seem to benefit of it during the first months of the pandemic. The high perceived effectiveness and low reporting of side effects should encourage medical professionals and policy makers for more openness towards considering CM as being part of an integrative approach to public health in times life changing events occur. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03528-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise T C Mulder
- Louis Bolk Institute, Kosterijland 3-5, 3981 AJ, Bunnik, The Netherlands
| | - Martine Busch
- Van Praag Institute, Springweg 7, 3511 VH, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Dutch Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health (CIZG), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Agnete E Kristoffersen
- National Research Centre in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Johanna Hök Nordberg
- Regional Cancer Centre Stockholm Gotland, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Nursing & Department Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Esther T van der Werf
- Louis Bolk Institute, Kosterijland 3-5, 3981 AJ, Bunnik, The Netherlands. .,Dutch Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health (CIZG), Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Ungur RA, Borda IM, Codea RA, Ciortea VM, Năsui BA, Muste S, Sarpataky O, Filip M, Irsay L, Crăciun EC, Căinap S, Jivănescu DB, Pop AL, Singurean VE, Crișan M, Groza OB, Martiș (Petruț) GS. A Flavonoid-Rich Extract of Sambucus nigra L. Reduced Lipid Peroxidation in a Rat Experimental Model of Gentamicin Nephrotoxicity. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:772. [PMID: 35160718 PMCID: PMC8837157 DOI: 10.3390/ma15030772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The use of gentamicin (GM) is limited due to its nephrotoxicity mediated by oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate the capacity of a flavonoid-rich extract of Sambucus nigra L. elderflower (SN) to inhibit lipoperoxidation in GM-induced nephrotoxicity. The HPLC analysis of the SN extract recorded high contents of rutin (463.2 ± 0.0 mg mL-1), epicatechin (9.0 ± 1.1 µg mL-1), and ferulic (1.5 ± 0.3 µg mL-1) and caffeic acid (3.6 ± 0.1 µg mL-1). Thirty-two Wistar male rats were randomized into four groups: a control group (C) (no treatment), GM group (100 mg kg-1 bw day-1 GM), GM+SN group (100 mg kg-1 bw day-1 GM and 1 mL SN extract day-1), and SN group (1 mL SN extract day-1). Lipid peroxidation, evaluated by malondialdehyde (MDA), and antioxidant enzymes activity-superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX)-were recorded in renal tissue after ten days of experimental treatment. The MDA level was significantly higher in the GM group compared to the control group (p < 0.0001), and was significantly reduced by SN in the GM+SN group compared to the GM group (p = 0.021). SN extract failed to improve SOD, CAT, and GPX activity in the GM+SN group compared to the GM group (p > 0.05), and its action was most probably due to the ability of flavonoids (rutin, epicatechin) and ferulic and caffeic acids to inhibit synthesis and neutralize reactive species, to reduce the redox-active iron pool, and to inhibit lipid peroxidation. In this study, we propose an innovative method for counteracting GM nephrotoxicity with a high efficiency and low cost, but with the disadvantage of the multifactorial environmental variability of the content of SN extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodica Ana Ungur
- Department of Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (R.A.U.); (V.M.C.); (L.I.)
| | - Ileana Monica Borda
- Department of Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (R.A.U.); (V.M.C.); (L.I.)
| | - Răzvan Andrei Codea
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Viorela Mihaela Ciortea
- Department of Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (R.A.U.); (V.M.C.); (L.I.)
| | - Bogdana Adriana Năsui
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Sevastița Muste
- Food Engineering Department, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 64 Calea Floresti, 400509 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (S.M.); (G.S.M.)
| | - Orsolya Sarpataky
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Miuța Filip
- Raluca Ripan Institute for Research in Chemistry, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Street, 400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Laszlo Irsay
- Department of Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (R.A.U.); (V.M.C.); (L.I.)
| | - Elena Cristina Crăciun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Simona Căinap
- Department of Mother and Child, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Delia Bunea Jivănescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Anca Lucia Pop
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Food Safety, Nutrition, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020945 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Victoria Emilia Singurean
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (V.E.S.); (M.C.); (O.B.G.)
| | - Maria Crișan
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (V.E.S.); (M.C.); (O.B.G.)
| | - Oana Bianca Groza
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (V.E.S.); (M.C.); (O.B.G.)
| | - Georgiana Smaranda Martiș (Petruț)
- Food Engineering Department, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 64 Calea Floresti, 400509 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (S.M.); (G.S.M.)
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Yavarian J, Zebardast A, Latifi T. The role of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 viroporins in inflammation. ADVANCES IN HUMAN BIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/aihb.aihb_108_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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Mehta A, Kumar Ratre Y, Sharma K, Soni VK, Tiwari AK, Singh RP, Dwivedi MK, Chandra V, Prajapati SK, Shukla D, Vishvakarma NK. Interplay of Nutrition and Psychoneuroendocrineimmune Modulation: Relevance for COVID-19 in BRICS Nations. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:769884. [PMID: 34975797 PMCID: PMC8718880 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.769884] [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] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The consequences of COVID-19 are not limited to physical health deterioration; the impact on neuropsychological well-being is also substantially reported. The inter-regulation of physical health and psychological well-being through the psychoneuroendocrineimmune (PNEI) axis has enduring consequences in susceptibility, treatment outcome as well as recuperation. The pandemic effects are upsetting the lifestyle, social interaction, and financial security; and also pose a threat through perceived fear. These consequences of COVID-19 also influence the PNEI system and wreck the prognosis. The nutritional status of individuals is also reported to have a determinative role in COVID-19 severity and convalescence. In addition to energetic demand, diet also provides precursor substances [amino acids (AAs), vitamins, etc.] for regulators of the PNEI axis such as neurotransmitters (NTs) and immunomodulators. Moreover, exaggerated immune response and recovery phase of COVID-19 demand additional nutrient intake; widening the gap of pre-existing undernourishment. Mushrooms, fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs and spices, and legumes are few of such readily available food ingredients which are rich in protein and also have medicinal benefits. BRICS nations have their influences on global development and are highly impacted by a large number of confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths. The adequacy and access to healthcare are also low in BRICS nations as compared to the rest of the world. Attempt to combat the COVID-19 pandemic are praiseworthy in BRICS nations. However, large population sizes, high prevalence of undernourishment (PoU), and high incidence of mental health ailments in BRICS nations provide a suitable landscape for jeopardy of COVID-19. Therefore, appraising the interplay of nutrition and PNEI modulation especially in BRICS countries will provide better understanding; and will aid in combat COVID-19. It can be suggested that the monitoring will assist in designing adjunctive interventions through medical nutrition therapy and psychopsychiatric management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arundhati Mehta
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, India
| | | | - Krishna Sharma
- Department of Psychology, Government Bilasa Girls Post Graduate Autonomous College, Bilaspur, India
| | - Vivek Kumar Soni
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, India
| | - Atul Kumar Tiwari
- Department of Zoology, Bhanwar Singh Porte Government Science College, Pendra, India
| | - Rajat Pratap Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, India
| | - Mrigendra Kumar Dwivedi
- Department of Biochemistry, Government Nagarjuna Post Graduate College of Science, Raipur, India
| | - Vikas Chandra
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, India
| | | | - Dhananjay Shukla
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, India
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13
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Talasaz AH, Sadeghipour P, Aghakouchakzadeh M, Kakavand H, Ariannejad H, Connors JM, Hunt BJ, Berger JS, Van Tassell BW, Middeldorp S, Piazza G, Weitz JI, Cushman M, Lip GYH, Goldhaber SZ, Bikdeli B. Use of novel antithrombotic agents for COVID-19: Systematic summary of ongoing randomized controlled trials. J Thromb Haemost 2021; 19:3080-3089. [PMID: 34538017 PMCID: PMC8646701 DOI: 10.1111/jth.15533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with macro- and micro-thromboses, which are triggered by endothelial cell activation, coagulopathy, and uncontrolled inflammatory response. Conventional antithrombotic agents are under assessment in dozens of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in patients with COVID-19, with preliminary results not demonstrating benefit in several studies. OBJECTIVES Given the possibility that more novel agents with antithrombotic effects may have a potential utility for management of patients with COVID-19, we assessed ongoing RCTs including these agents with their potential mechanism of action in this population. METHODS We searched clinicaltrials.gov and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform to identify RCTs of novel antithrombotic agents in patients with COVID-19. RESULTS Based on a systematic literature search, 27 RCTs with 10 novel antithrombotic agents (including nafamostat, dociparstat, rNAPc2, and defibrotide) were identified. The results from these trials have not been disseminated yet. The studied drugs in the ongoing or completed RCTs include agents affecting the coagulation cascade, drugs affecting endothelial activation, and mixed acting agents. Their postulated antithrombotic mechanisms of action and their potential impact on patient management are summarized. CONCLUSION Some novel antithrombotic agents have pleiotropic anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects, which may help reduce the viral load or fibrosis, and improve oxygenation. Results from ongoing RCTs will elucidate their actual role in the management of patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azita H Talasaz
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcome Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Parham Sadeghipour
- Cardiovascular Intervention Research Center, Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Aghakouchakzadeh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hessam Kakavand
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Ariannejad
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jean M Connors
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Beverley J Hunt
- Haemostasis and Thrombosis Centre, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey S Berger
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Benjamin W Van Tassell
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcome Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Pauley Heart Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Saskia Middeldorp
- Department of Internal Medicine & Radboud Institute of Health Sciences (RIHS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Gregory Piazza
- Cardiovascular Medicine Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey I Weitz
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Thrombosis and Atherosclerosis Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary Cushman
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Samuel Z Goldhaber
- Cardiovascular Medicine Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Behnood Bikdeli
- Cardiovascular Medicine Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Clinical Trials Center, Cardiovascular Research Foundation, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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14
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Verduzco-Gutierrez M, Estores IM, Graf MJP, Barshikar S, Cabrera JA, Chang LE, Eapen BC, Bell KR. Models of Care for Postacute COVID-19 Clinics: Experiences and a Practical Framework for Outpatient Physiatry Settings. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 100:1133-1139. [PMID: 34793373 PMCID: PMC8594397 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT After surviving infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, individuals may have persistent symptoms and prolonged impairments that may last for weeks to months. The frequency and heterogeneity of persistent post-COVID conditions have created challenges in care. Specialty clinics are being established in response to an increasing need to care for patients with postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 or long COVID syndrome. Although many post-COVID conditions can be bettered through a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, various clinical settings may benefit from differing models of coordinated care. We present five models of care in varying degrees of development and compare processes and adaptations to address the unique needs of each center and their unique patient populations. Forging a path to recovery will necessitate a multidisciplinary team with physiatry involvement to meet the distinctive needs of patients with postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, it is imperative that there be equitable access to this care and commitment from healthcare institutions to provide resources for these programs.
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15
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Barber MS, Barrett R, Bradley RD, Walker E. A naturopathic treatment approach for mild and moderate COVID-19: A retrospective chart review. Complement Ther Med 2021; 63:102788. [PMID: 34748955 PMCID: PMC8570825 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to significant morbidity and mortality. Although COVID-19 vaccination is available, therapeutic options are still needed. The goal of the present manuscript is to report on a treatment strategy used in a naturopathic medical practice for mild and moderate COVID-19. DESIGN A retrospective chart review was conducted of 30 consecutive patients diagnosed with mild and moderate COVID-19 who were provided multi-nutrient, herbal, and probiotic treatment in a rural, out-patient, naturopathic primary care setting. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES The primary outcome was treatment safety; secondary outcomes included changes in symptoms, progression to severe COVID-19, incidence of long COVID, and recovery time. RESULTS No side effects or adverse events were reported from treatment and all patients experienced resolution of symptoms presumed to be associated with COVID-19 infection. One patient who had been ill for 28 days prior to presentation was hospitalized. Five patients had an illness duration of more than one month. Time to treatment was correlated with duration of illness post-treatment (r = 0.63, p < 0.001) and more symptoms at presentation was correlated with a longer duration of illness (r = 0.52, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS In this retrospective chart review, a multi-nutrient, herbal, and probiotic therapeutic approach for mild and moderate COVID-19 appeared to be well-tolerated. Delay in seeking treatment after symptom onset, as well as more symptoms at presentation, were correlated with a longer duration of illness. This treatment strategy may have clinical benefit, warranting prospective clinical trials with confirmed COVID-19 cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa S Barber
- National University of Natural Medicine, Helfgott Research Institute, 2220 SW 1st Ave, Portland, OR, United States.
| | - Richard Barrett
- National University of Natural Medicine, Helfgott Research Institute, 2220 SW 1st Ave, Portland, OR, United States.
| | - Ryan D Bradley
- National University of Natural Medicine, Helfgott Research Institute, 2220 SW 1st Ave, Portland, OR, United States.
| | - Erin Walker
- Canby Clinic, 452 NW 1st Ave, Canby, OR, United States.
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Mukherjee SK, Ganguly S, Das S, Chatterjee KK, Naskar KK, Dey S, Choudhury S, Paul A, Sarkar SS, Bhattacharyya S, Sengupta S, Alam SM, Bhattacharya P, Naskar S, Mukherjee S, Shamim S, Mandal D, Sardar S, Sarkar S, Ray B, Gole R, Dey A, Bhattacharya C, Saha S. Homeopathic Medicines Used as Prophylaxis in Kolkata during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Community-Based, Cluster-Randomized Trial. HOMEOPATHY 2021; 111:97-104. [PMID: 34715718 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1734026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is some evidence that homeopathic treatment has been used successfully in previous epidemics, and currently some countries are testing homeoprophylaxis for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. There is a strong tradition of homeopathic treatment in India: therefore, we decided to compare three different homeopathic medicines against placebo in prevention of COVID-19 infections. METHODS In this double-blind, cluster-randomized, placebo-controlled, four parallel arms, community-based, clinical trial, a 20,000-person sample of the population residing in Ward Number 57 of the Tangra area, Kolkata, was randomized in a 1:1:1:1 ratio of clusters to receive one of three homeopathic medicines (Bryonia alba 30cH, Gelsemium sempervirens 30cH, Phosphorus 30cH) or identical-looking placebo, for 3 (children) or 6 (adults) days. All the participants, who were aged 5 to 75 years, received ascorbic acid (vitamin C) tablets of 500 mg, once per day for 6 days. In addition, instructions on healthy diet and general hygienic measures, including hand washing, social distancing and proper use of mask and gloves, were given to all the participants. RESULTS No new confirmed COVID-19 cases were diagnosed in the target population during the follow-up timeframe of 1 month-December 20, 2020 to January 19, 2021-thus making the trial inconclusive. The Phosphorus group had the least exposure to COVID-19 compared with the other groups. In comparison with placebo, the occurrence of unconfirmed COVID-19 cases was significantly less in the Phosphorus group (week 1: odds ratio [OR], 0.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.06 to 0.16; week 2: OR, 0.004; 95% CI, 0.0002 to 0.06; week 3: OR, 0.007; 95% CI, 0.0004 to 0.11; week 4: OR, 0.009; 95% CI, 0.0006 to 0.14), but not in the Bryonia or Gelsemium groups. CONCLUSION Overall, the trial was inconclusive. The possible effect exerted by Phosphorus necessitates further investigation. TRIAL REGISTRATION CTRI/2020/11/029265.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyamal Kumar Mukherjee
- Department of Community Medicine, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Subhasish Ganguly
- Department of Organon of Medicine and Homoeopathic Philosophy, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Satadal Das
- Department of Pathology & Microbiology, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Kalyan Kumar Chatterjee
- Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, DN.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Kisor Kumar Naskar
- Department of Materia Medica, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Samit Dey
- Department of Repertory, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Saptarshi Choudhury
- Department of Practice of Medicine, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Amitava Paul
- Department of Community Medicine, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sasanka Sekhar Sarkar
- Department of Surgery, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Soumya Bhattacharyya
- Department of Materia Medica, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sumana Sengupta
- Department of Practice of Medicine, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sk Monsur Alam
- Department of Repertory, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pulakendu Bhattacharya
- Department of Organon of Medicine and Homoeopathic Philosophy, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Satyajit Naskar
- Department of Organon of Medicine and Homoeopathic Philosophy, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sudeshna Mukherjee
- Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, DN.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Saima Shamim
- Department of Materia Medica, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Dibyendu Mandal
- Department of Homoeopathic Pharmacy, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sudeshna Sardar
- Department of Physiology, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sanjib Sarkar
- Department of Anatomy, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Benoy Ray
- Department of Community Medicine, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Raghubir Gole
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Avijit Dey
- Department of Community Medicine, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Chanchal Bhattacharya
- Department of Community Medicine, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Subhranil Saha
- Department of Repertory, D.N.De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Govt. of West Bengal, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Quiros JR, Ross-Comptis J, Hathaway D, Sarfraz A, Sarfraz Z, Grigoryan Z, Romero KA, Gapizov A, Príncipe-Meneses FS, Somagutta MR, Riva-Moscoso A, Kapasi A. Ruxolitinib and the Mitigation of Severe COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Infect Chemother 2021; 53:436-448. [PMID: 34623777 PMCID: PMC8511368 DOI: 10.3947/ic.2020.0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The cause of end-organ damage and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients is postulated to be connected to the uncontrolled increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The upregulation of many cytokines is dependent on signaling through the Janus kinase 1 (JAK-1) and JAK-2 pathways. Ruxolitinib, a JAK-1 and JAK-2 inhibitor, is documented to have potent anti-inflammatory activity by targeting several cytokines and growth factors with proposed efficacy in the cytokine storm observed in severe COVID-19 patients; therefore, this study examines the efficacy and tolerability of ruxolitinib for adult COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods This review was conducted using preferred reporting items for aystematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology. Six reviewers analyzed 1,120 results. Seven studies were selected and validated. A quantitative meta-analysis was further performed to evaluate clinical improvement at day 28, mortality at day 28, and oxygen requirements comparing treatment and standard of care groups. Results 168 individuals were involved in the studies selected: 122 in cohort studies, 4 in case reports, and 41 in randomized controlled studies. The ruxolitinib group had a higher likelihood of clinical improvement by the 28th day of treatment when assessed with the standard of care (SOC) group (odds ratio [OR]: 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.53 - 4.16; P = 0.45; I2 = 0%). The SOC group was at a higher risk of experiencing serious adverse events (OR: 0.17; 95% CI: 0.03 - 1.13; P = 0.07). Notably the SOC group had a higher likelihood of death (OR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.11-2.29; P = 0.07; I2 = 0%). Conclusion Prior studies on ruxolitinib have demonstrated it is able to decrease inflammatory markers. In recent studies on COVID-19, treatment with ruxolitinib decreased the time on mechanical ventilation, hospitalization time, and the need for vasopressor support. Additionally, ruxolitinib showed decreased mortality and demonstrated improvement in lung congestion as evidenced by computerized tomography imaging. These findings warrant further clinical investigation into Ruxolitinib as a potential treatment approach for severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge R Quiros
- St. George's University School of Medicine, St. George's, Grenada.,Broward Health Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | - Zhanna Grigoryan
- St. George's University School of Medicine, St. George's, Grenada
| | | | - Abubakar Gapizov
- St. George's University School of Medicine, St. George's, Grenada
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18
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Junaid M, Akter Y, Siddika A, Nayeem SMA, Nahrin A, Afrose SS, Ezaj MMA, Alam MS. Nature-derived hit, lead, and drug-like small molecules: Current status and future aspects against key target proteins of Coronaviruses. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 22:498-549. [PMID: 34353257 DOI: 10.2174/1389557521666210805113231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic, the most unprecedented event of the year 2020, has brought millions of scientists worldwide in a single platform to fight against it. Though several drugs are now in the clinical trial, few vaccines available on the market already but the lack of an effect of those is making the situation worse. AIM OF THE STUDY In this review, we demonstrated comprehensive data of natural antiviral products showing activities against different proteins of Human Coronaviruses (HCoV) that are responsible for its pathogenesis. Furthermore, we categorized the compounds into the hit, lead, and drug based on the IC50/EC50 value, drug-likeness, and lead-likeness test to portray their potentiality to be a drug. We also demonstrated the present status of our screened antiviral compounds with respect to clinical trials and reported the lead compounds that can be promoted to clinical trial against COVID-19. METHODS A systematic search strategy was employed focusing on Natural Products (NPs) with proven activity (in vitro, in vivo, or in silico) against human coronaviruses, in general, and data were gathered from databases like PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, SciVerse, and Scopus. Information regarding clinical trials retrieved from the Clinical Trial database. RESULTS Total "245" natural compounds were identified initially from the literature study. Among them, Glycyrrhizin, Caffeic acid, Curcumin is in phase 3, and Tetrandrine, Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus, Everolimus are in phase 4 clinical trial. Except for Glycyrrhizin, all compounds showed activity against COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our demonstrated specific small molecules with lead and drug-like capabilities clarified their position in the drug discovery pipeline and proposed their future research against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Junaid
- Natural Products Research Division, Advanced Bioinformatics, Computational Biology and Data Science Laboratory. Bangladesh
| | - Yeasmin Akter
- Natural Products Research Division, Advanced Bioinformatics, Computational Biology and Data Science Laboratory. Bangladesh
| | - Aysha Siddika
- Natural Products Research Division, Advanced Bioinformatics, Computational Biology and Data Science Laboratory. Bangladesh
| | - S M Abdul Nayeem
- Natural Products Research Division, Advanced Bioinformatics, Computational Biology and Data Science Laboratory. Bangladesh
| | - Afsana Nahrin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology Chittagong. Bangladesh
| | - Syeda Samira Afrose
- Natural Products Research Division, Advanced Bioinformatics, Computational Biology and Data Science Laboratory. Bangladesh
| | - Md Muzahid Ahmed Ezaj
- Natural Products Research Division, Advanced Bioinformatics, Computational Biology and Data Science Laboratory. Bangladesh
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19
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Ilori T, Akintayo A, Adewale B, Oyetola E. KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF NIGERIAN MEDICAL STUDENTS TOWARDS COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE IN COVID-19 MANAGEMENT. Ann Ib Postgrad Med 2021; 19:S22-S30. [PMID: 35095365 PMCID: PMC8791395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is commonly used, but many physicians have limited knowledge of CAM despite its widespread use. Therefore, this study sought to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of medical students on complementary and alternative medicine in the management of COVID-19. METHODOLOGY A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 medical students from three Federal Universities in South West, Nigeria. A self-administered semi-structured online Google Forms questionnaire was used to collect information. Chi-squared and Fisher's exact test was used to analyze the bivariate relationship between KAP status and sociodemographic characteristics. Spearman's correlation coefficient matrix was computed to determine the association between knowledge, attitude, CAM, age, and religiosity practice. RESULTS The median age was 22 years (interquartile range: [IQR]: 21-23 years). Median self-rated score for religion was 4.00 (IQR: 3.00-4.25). Median knowledge score was 4.00 (IQR: 3.75-5.00), median attitude score 2.75 (IQR: 2.38-3.00) and median practice score 2.00 (IQR: 1.00-2.00). Thirty-seven respondents (24.7%) were considered to have poor knowledge about CAM use in COVID-19 while the rest (75.3%) had good knowledge. Thirty-eight (25.3%) had a poor attitude towards using CAM in COVID-19 and 112 (74.7%) had a good attitude. CONCLUSION Medical students have good knowledge and a positive attitude towards CAM modalities as adjunct management for COVID-19. However, their practices do not reflect wide acceptability. There is a need for clinical trials on the efficacy of CAM as an adjunct treatment for COVID-19 to further inform its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. Ilori
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.,Department of Family Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - B.A. Adewale
- College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - E.O. Oyetola
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, Nigeria
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20
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Dini I, Laneri S. Spices, Condiments, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Aromas as Not Only Flavorings, but Precious Allies for Our Wellbeing. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:868. [PMID: 34071441 PMCID: PMC8230008 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spices, condiments and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) are crucial components of human history and nutrition. They are substances added to foods to improve flavor and taste. Many of them are used not only to flavor foods, but also in traditional medicine and cosmetics. They have antioxidant, antiviral, antibiotic, anticoagulant and antiinflammatory properties and exciting potential for preventing chronic degenerative diseases such as cardiomyopathy and cancer when used in the daily diet. Research and development in this particular field are deeply rooted as the consumer inclination towards natural products is significant. It is essential to let consumers know the beneficial effects of the daily consumption of spices, condiments and extra virgin olive oil so that they can choose them based on effects proven by scientific works and not by the mere illusion that plant products are suitable only because they are natural and not chemicals. The study begins with the definition of spices, condiments and extra virgin olive oil. It continues by describing the pathologies that can be prevented with a spicy diet and it concludes by considering the molecules responsible for the beneficial effects on human health (phytochemical) and their eventual transformation when cooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Dini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy;
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21
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Evaluation of The Knowledge and Attitudes of Patients Admitted to Covid-19 Outpatient Clinic about Traditional and Complementary Medicine. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.16899/jcm.919359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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22
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Horwitz R, Maizes V. Integrative Medicine and the Long Hauler Syndrome-We Meet Again. Am J Med 2021; 134:418-419. [PMID: 33387457 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Randy Horwitz
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, Tucson.
| | - Victoria Maizes
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, Tucson
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23
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Pastor N, Collado MC, Manzoni P. Phytonutrient and Nutraceutical Action against COVID-19: Current Review of Characteristics and Benefits. Nutrients 2021; 13:464. [PMID: 33573173 PMCID: PMC7910826 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020464] [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: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The trend toward using phytonutrients and/or nutraceuticals (P/Ns) with the aim of impacting immune health has increased in recent years. The main reason is that properties of P/Ns are associated with possible immunomodulating effects in the prevention and complementary treatment of viral diseases, including COVID-19 and other respiratory infections. In the present review, we assess the scientific plausibility of specific P/Ns for this purpose of preventative and therapeutic interventions against COVID-19, with an emphasis on safety, validity, and evidence of efficacy against other viruses. Five potential candidates have been identified after reviewing available studies (in silico, in vitro, and in vivo) in which certain flavonoids have demonstrated a potential for use as adjuvant therapeutic agents against viral infections, including COVID-19. As these are often better tolerated than pharmacological treatments, their use could be more widely considered if additional detailed studies can validate the existing evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitida Pastor
- Department of Medical Affairs, Clinical Research, Mead Johnson Nutrition, Evansville, IN 47721, USA
| | - Maria Carmen Collado
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology-National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Agustin Escardino 7, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain;
| | - Paolo Manzoni
- Division of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Department of Maternal, Neonatal, and Infant Medicine, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi, 13875 Biella, Italy;
- Neonatology and NICU, Sant’Anna Hospital, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, 10136 Torino, Italy
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24
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Çimke S, Yıldırım Gürkan D. Determination of interest in vitamin use during COVID-19 pandemic using Google Trends data: Infodemiology study. Nutrition 2021; 85:111138. [PMID: 33578243 PMCID: PMC7797169 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2020.111138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to determine the interest in vitamin use during the COVID-19 pandemic usıng Google Trends data. Method Searches were made between January 1, 2016 and August 30, 2020. First, the word “vitamin” was searched. Additionally, the search words "vitamin,” “COVID-19,” “immunity,” and Vitamin D,” “Vitamin C,” “Vitamin E,” and “Vitamin A” were searched comparatively. Search was made in Turkish (in Turkey) and English (in world). Additionally, the word “vitamin” was translated into some countries’ languages and was searched. Relative search volumes (RSVs) obtained in searches are presented with graphics. RSVs, downloaded as .csv were transferred to SPSS. Descriptive data was given as numbers and percentages. Kruskal-Wallis analysis was used to determine the difference of RSVs according to years and seasons. Additionally, queries arising related to search words were presented. Results Findings from the present study determined that the trend toward vitamins reached 100 RSVs in March 2020, when COVID-19 was declared a pandemic. Vitamins D and C were the most frequently searched vitamin types in Turkey and worldwide. It was determined that searches consisting of a combination of COVID-19 and vitamins were made. Conclusion Vitamins attract public interest globally. Seasonal variation and COVID-19 shaped the popularity of vitamins both worldwide and in Turkey. The search frequency was highest in the autumn and spring, but the largest search related to all search terms was determined to be in March 2020. Interest in vitamins has increased since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevim Çimke
- Department of Children Nursing, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Turkey.
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25
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Abstract
A wide variety of symptoms is associated with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, and these symptoms can overlap with other conditions and diseases. Knowing the distribution of symptoms across diseases and individuals can support clinical actions on timelines shorter than those for drug and vaccine development. Here, we focus on zinc deficiency symptoms, symptom overlap with other conditions, as well as zinc effects on immune health and mechanistic zinc deficiency risk groups. There are well-studied beneficial effects of zinc on the immune system including a decreased susceptibility to and improved clinical outcomes for infectious pathogens including multiple viruses. Zinc is also an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress agent, relevant to some severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms. Unfortunately, zinc deficiency is common worldwide and not exclusive to the developing world. Lifestyle choices and preexisting conditions alone can result in zinc deficiency, and we compile zinc risk groups based on a review of the literature. It is also important to distinguish chronic zinc deficiency from deficiency acquired upon viral infection and immune response and their different supplementation strategies. Zinc is being considered as prophylactic or adjunct therapy for COVID-19, with 12 clinical trials underway, highlighting the relevance of this trace element for global pandemics. Using the example of zinc, we show that there is a critical need for a deeper understanding of essential trace elements in human health, and the resulting deficiency symptoms and their overlap with other conditions. This knowledge will directly support human immune health for decreasing susceptibility, shortening illness duration, and preventing progression to severe cases in the current and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin P. Joachimiak
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States of America
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26
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Brendler T, Al‐Harrasi A, Bauer R, Gafner S, Hardy ML, Heinrich M, Hosseinzadeh H, Izzo AA, Michaelis M, Nassiri‐Asl M, Panossian A, Wasser SP, Williamson EM. Botanical drugs and supplements affecting the immune response in the time of
COVID
‐19: Implications for research and clinical practice. Phytother Res 2020; 35:3013-3031. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Brendler
- Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology University of Johannesburg Johannesburg South Africa
- Plantaphile Collingswood New Jersey USA
| | - Ahmed Al‐Harrasi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Centre University of Nizwa Nizwa Oman
| | - Rudolf Bauer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacognosy University of Graz Graz Austria
| | | | - Mary L. Hardy
- Association of Integrative and Holistic Medicine San Diego California USA
| | - Michael Heinrich
- Research Group ‘Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy’, UCL School of Pharmacy University of London London UK
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine China Medical University Taichung Taiwan
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute Mashhad University of Medical Sciences Mashhad Iran
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy Mashhad University of Medical Sciences Mashhad Iran
| | - Angelo A. Izzo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Martin Michaelis
- Industrial Biotechnology Centre and School of Biosciences University of Kent Canterbury UK
| | - Marjan Nassiri‐Asl
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Neurobiology Research Center Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | | | - Solomon P. Wasser
- Institute of Evolution and Department of Evolutionary and Environmental Biology University of Haifa Haifa Israel
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27
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Seifert G, Jeitler M, Stange R, Michalsen A, Cramer H, Brinkhaus B, Esch T, Kerckhoff A, Paul A, Teut M, Ghadjar P, Langhorst J, Häupl T, Murthy V, Kessler CS. The Relevance of Complementary and Integrative Medicine in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Review of the Literature. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:587749. [PMID: 33363186 PMCID: PMC7761649 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.587749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic people are facing risks of adverse health effects due to the restrictions implemented such as quarantine measures, reduced social contact, and self-isolation. In this qualitative review, we collected data on potential preventive and therapeutic health benefits of Complementary and Integrative Medicine (CIM) that might be useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. We have reviewed the scientific literature to summarize CIM practices that could be beneficial for improving physical and mental health and well-being of the population under the current pandemic circumstances. It must be noted that this review is not SARS-CoV-2 specific and we explicitly do not intend to make any SARS-CoV-2 specific health claims in this article. Methods and Findings: A qualitative, non-systematic literature review was conducted in Medline to identify literature describing preventive and therapeutic CIM approaches for strengthening mental and physical health. For a variety of CIM approaches clinical evidence was identified, indicating beneficial effects. CIM approaches include specific dietary measures and selected micronutrients, physical activity, techniques from Mind-Body Medicine, single botanicals or botanical compounds, and spending time in nature among others. The effects of CIM measures on conditions like obesity and hypertension are of special relevance here, as these conditions are considered as risk factors for a severe course of COVID-19. Moreover, a possibly direct effect of CIM approaches on immune functions and clinical parameters in respiratory tract infections, such as influenza, were identified. The findings of this review could be helpful for clinicians, patients, and the general population during the current pandemic when discussing and/or considering CIM options. Conclusions: CIM offers a variety of preventive and therapeutic options for strengthening physical and mental resilience, which could also be useful in the current COVID-19 pandemic. The evidence of CIM approaches with a potential benefit in the COVID-19 pandemic in different areas is worth to be analyzed. While this qualitative review has several obvious limitations, it might serve as useful starting point for further research on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Seifert
- Department of Paediatric Oncology/Haematology, Otto-Heubner Centre for Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine (OHC), Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,*Correspondence: Georg Seifert
| | - Michael Jeitler
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rainer Stange
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Michalsen
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Holger Cramer
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany,National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Benno Brinkhaus
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Esch
- Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, University Clinic for Integrative Health Care, Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Annette Kerckhoff
- Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, University Clinic for Integrative Health Care, Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Anna Paul
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Teut
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pirus Ghadjar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jost Langhorst
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Klinikum Bamberg, Chair for Integrative Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Bamberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Häupl
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vijay Murthy
- Faculty of Medicine, Primary Care and Population Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Christian S. Kessler
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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28
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Agrawal PK, Agrawal C, Blunden G. Quercetin: Antiviral Significance and Possible COVID-19 Integrative Considerations. Nat Prod Commun 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x20976293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Quercetin, a naturally occurring dietary flavonoid, is well known to ameliorate chronic diseases and aging processes in humans, and its antiviral properties have been investigated in numerous studies. In silico and in vitro studies demonstrated that quercetin can interfere with various stages of the coronavirus entry and replication cycle such as PLpro, 3CLpro, and NTPase/helicase. Due to its pleiotropic activities and lack of systemic toxicity, quercetin and its derivatives may represent target compounds to be tested in future clinical trials to enrich the drug arsenal against coronavirus infections. There is evidence that quercetin in combination with, for example, vitamins C and D, may exert a synergistic antiviral action that may provide either an alternative or additional therapeutic/preventive option due to overlapping antiviral and immunomodulatory properties. This review summarizes the antiviral significance of quercetin and proposes a possible strategy for the effective utilization of natural polyphenols in our daily diet for the prevention of viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gerald Blunden
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
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29
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Marcial-Coba MS. Scientifically unproven treatments for COVID-19. BIONATURA 2020. [DOI: 10.21931/rb/2020.05.04.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Detected for the first time in late December 2019, a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is the causative agent of an international outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In late August 2020, approx. 24 000 000 cases, including 815 038 deaths, have been confirmed worldwide1. The WHO declared the outbreak of COVID-19 as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, and it has been proposed that its spread may be interrupted by early detection, isolation, the implementation of a robust system to trace contacts, and a prompt treatment2. Nevertheless, there has not yet been any vaccine or effective treatment that has received approval3. Despite this, the FDA has recently issued an emergency use authorization for the investigational antiviral drug Remdesivir to treat COVID-19 in patients with severe disease4. Although there is still limited information regarding the safety and efficacy of this novel prodrug, it has shown potent in vitro antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 isolates, and therapeutic efficacy in animal models5.
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30
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31
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Babich O, Sukhikh S, Prosekov A, Asyakina L, Ivanova S. Medicinal Plants to Strengthen Immunity during a Pandemic. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:E313. [PMID: 33076514 PMCID: PMC7602650 DOI: 10.3390/ph13100313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of new effective anti-coronavirus drugs and therapies is important, but it requires significant human, financial and, most importantly, time expenditures. The current pandemic is neither the first nor the last. Humanity has already accumulated considerable survival experience. We cannot do without prevention and epidemiological protection measures. This study reviews medicinal plants that grow in Northeast Asia and whose antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory characteristics are already known, also in the framework of the prevention and treatment of pneumonia of various etiologies. The need for a comprehensive approach to maintaining immunodefences, including functional foods and positive emotions, is emphasized. In the period of pandemics, it is important to research various areas that allow to us accumulate a critical mass of information and cope with the next global disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Babich
- Institute of Living Systems, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, A. Nevskogo Street 14, 236016 Kaliningrad, Russia; (O.B.); (S.S.)
- Laboratory of Biocatalysis, Kemerovo State University, Krasnaya Street 6, 650043 Kemerovo, Russia;
| | - Stanislav Sukhikh
- Institute of Living Systems, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, A. Nevskogo Street 14, 236016 Kaliningrad, Russia; (O.B.); (S.S.)
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Kemerovo State University, Krasnaya Street 6, 650043 Kemerovo, Russia;
| | - Alexander Prosekov
- Laboratory of Biocatalysis, Kemerovo State University, Krasnaya Street 6, 650043 Kemerovo, Russia;
| | - Lyudmila Asyakina
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Kemerovo State University, Krasnaya Street 6, 650043 Kemerovo, Russia;
| | - Svetlana Ivanova
- Natural Nutraceutical Biotesting Laboratory, Kemerovo State University, Krasnaya Street 6, 650043 Kemerovo, Russia
- Department of General Mathematics and Informatics, Kemerovo State University, Krasnaya Street, 6, 650043 Kemerovo, Russia
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32
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Silveira D, Prieto-Garcia JM, Boylan F, Estrada O, Fonseca-Bazzo YM, Jamal CM, Magalhães PO, Pereira EO, Tomczyk M, Heinrich M. COVID-19: Is There Evidence for the Use of Herbal Medicines as Adjuvant Symptomatic Therapy? Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:581840. [PMID: 33071794 PMCID: PMC7542597 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.581840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current recommendations for the self-management of SARS-Cov-2 disease (COVID-19) include self-isolation, rest, hydration, and the use of NSAID in case of high fever only. It is expected that many patients will add other symptomatic/adjuvant treatments, such as herbal medicines. AIMS To provide a benefits/risks assessment of selected herbal medicines traditionally indicated for "respiratory diseases" within the current frame of the COVID-19 pandemic as an adjuvant treatment. METHOD The plant selection was primarily based on species listed by the WHO and EMA, but some other herbal remedies were considered due to their widespread use in respiratory conditions. Preclinical and clinical data on their efficacy and safety were collected from authoritative sources. The target population were adults with early and mild flu symptoms without underlying conditions. These were evaluated according to a modified PrOACT-URL method with paracetamol, ibuprofen, and codeine as reference drugs. The benefits/risks balance of the treatments was classified as positive, promising, negative, and unknown. RESULTS A total of 39 herbal medicines were identified as very likely to appeal to the COVID-19 patient. According to our method, the benefits/risks assessment of the herbal medicines was found to be positive in 5 cases (Althaea officinalis, Commiphora molmol, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Hedera helix, and Sambucus nigra), promising in 12 cases (Allium sativum, Andrographis paniculata, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea, Eucalyptus globulus essential oil, Justicia pectoralis, Magnolia officinalis, Mikania glomerata, Pelargonium sidoides, Pimpinella anisum, Salix sp, Zingiber officinale), and unknown for the rest. On the same grounds, only ibuprofen resulted promising, but we could not find compelling evidence to endorse the use of paracetamol and/or codeine. CONCLUSIONS Our work suggests that several herbal medicines have safety margins superior to those of reference drugs and enough levels of evidence to start a clinical discussion about their potential use as adjuvants in the treatment of early/mild common flu in otherwise healthy adults within the context of COVID-19. While these herbal medicines will not cure or prevent the flu, they may both improve general patient well-being and offer them an opportunity to personalize the therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dâmaris Silveira
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Jose Maria Prieto-Garcia
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Fabio Boylan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Omar Estrada
- Biophysics and Biochemistry Center, Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research, Caracas, Venezuela
| | | | | | | | - Edson Oliveira Pereira
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Michal Tomczyk
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Michael Heinrich
- Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, School of Pharmacy, University College of London, London, United Kingdom
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Klement RJ. The SARS-CoV-2 crisis: A crisis of reductionism? Public Health 2020; 185:70-71. [PMID: 32570148 PMCID: PMC7290200 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rainer J Klement
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leopoldina Hospital, Schweinfurt, Germany.
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Farmakis D, Giakoumis A, Cannon L, Angastiniotis M, Eleftheriou A. COVID-19 and thalassaemia: A position statement of the Thalassaemia International Federation. Eur J Haematol 2020; 105:378-386. [PMID: 32573838 PMCID: PMC7361751 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.13476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Many patients with haemoglobinopathies, including thalassaemia and sickle cell disease, are at increased risk of developing severe complications from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Although epidemiologic evidence concerning the novel coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection in these patients is currently lacking, the COVID‐19 pandemic represents a significant challenge for haemoglobinopathy patients, their families and their attending physicians. Methods The present statement summarizes the key challenges concerning the management of haemoglobinopathies, with particular focus on patients with either transfusion‐dependent or non‐transfusion‐dependent thalassaemia, identifies the gaps in knowledge and suggests measures and strategies to deal with the pandemic, based on available evidence and expert opinions. Key areas covered include patients’ risk level, adaptation of haemoglobinopathy care, safety of blood transfusions, blood supply challenges, and lifestyle and nutritional considerations. Conclusions The proposed measures and strategies may be useful as a blueprint for other disorders which require regular hospital visits, as well as for the timely adaptation of patient care during similar future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lily Cannon
- Thalassaemia International Federation, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Weeks J. Call to Action: Announcing the Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Health and Medicine COVID-19 Support Registry. J Altern Complement Med 2020; 26:256-258. [PMID: 32250655 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2020.29083.jjw] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- John Weeks
- Editor-in-Chief, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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