The SARS-CoV-2 virus first emerged in China in December 2019 and quickly spread worldwide. Despite the absence of a vaccination or authorized drug specifically developed to combat this infection, certain medications recommended for other diseases have shown potential effectiveness in treating COVID-19, although without definitive confirmation. This review aims to evaluate the existing literature on the efficacy of these medications against COVID-19. The review encompasses various potential treatments, including antiviral medications, anti-malaria and anti-rheumatic drugs, vaccines, corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antipyretic and analgesic medicines, antiparasitic drugs, and statins. The analysis also addresses the potential benefits and drawbacks of these medications, as well as their effects on hypertension and diabetes. Although these therapies hold promise against COVID-19, further research, including suitable product production or clinical testing, is needed to establish their therapeutic efficacy.
This review summarizes the scientific knowledge concerning the impact of vitamins, magnesium, and trace elements on various mechanisms contributing to the possible treatment and prevention of COVID-19, including its delayed consequences. A search was conducted in various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.- gov, and Web of Science. Among the main mechanisms involved in the effects of the studied micronutrients, immune-boosting, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were also highlighted. The analyzed clinical trials confirmed that supplementation with higher daily doses of some micronutrients can reduce SARS-CoV-2 viral load and hospitalization time. The potential role of most known vitamins in preventing, treating COVID-19, and rehabilitating patients was considered. The most promising agents for combating COVID-19 and its consequences might be the following vitamins: vitamin D, ascorbic acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and some B complex vitamins. Inorganic elements deserving attention include magnesium and trace elements, such as zinc, selenium, copper, and iron. Some associations were found between micronutrient deficiencies and COVID-19 severity in children, adults, and older people. Patients can obtain the aforementioned micronutrients from natural food sources or as supplements/- drugs in various dosage forms. The reviewed micronutrients might be considered adjunctive treatment strategies for COVID-19 patients.
Keywords: COVID-19; ascorbic acid; copper; fat-soluble vitamins; iron; magnesium; micronutrients; selenium; vitamin B complex; zinc..
Viral diseases have a significant impact on human health, and three novel coronaviruses (CoV) have emerged during the 21st century. In this review, we have emphasized the potential of herbal substances with antiviral effects. Our investigation focused on the features and prospects of viral disease treatment, with a particular emphasis on proinflammatory cytokines. We conducted comprehensive searches of various databases, including Science Direct, CABI Direct, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. Cytokine storm mechanisms play a crucial role in inducing a pro-inflammatory response by triggering the expression of cytokines and chemokines. This response leads to the recruitment of leukocytes and promotes antiviral effects, forming the first line of defense against viruses. Numerous studies have investigated the use of herbal medicine candidates as immunomodulators or antivirals. However, cytokine-storm-targeted therapy is recommended for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by SARS-CoV to survive severe pulmonary failure. Our reviews have demonstrated that herbal formulations could serve as alternative medicines and significantly reduce complicated viral infections. Furthermore, they hold promising potential as specific antiviral agents in experimental animal models.