Azelastine Nasal Spray Shows Promise in Reducing COVID-19 Infection Rates, Study Finds
A recent randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted at saarland University Hospital in Germany suggests that azelastine nasal spray may considerably reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection. The study, involving 450 healthy adults, demonstrated a two-thirds reduction in COVID-19 cases in the group receiving azelastine compared to the placebo group.
Participants were administered either azelastine nasal spray or a placebo three times daily for 56 days. Throughout the trial, subjects underwent rapid antigen testing twice weekly, with positive results confirmed via PCR testing. PCR tests were also administered to individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms despite negative antigen results.
Results indicated a 6.7% infection rate in the placebo group, contrasted with a 2.2% infection rate in the azelastine group.Researchers also observed fewer PCR-confirmed symptomatic infections – 21 in the azelastine group versus 49 in the placebo group – and a reduction in rhinovirus infections (common cold).
While the exact mechanism is still under investigation, previous research suggests azelastine may inhibit the coronavirus from entering and replicating within the body.
“Larger trials still need to increase our knowledge on this approach,” stated lead researcher Meiser.
Azelastine is generally considered safe for daily use, according to Dr. sonali Sohn, but using higher doses, as employed in the study, “may be particularly applicable to high-risk settings such as large gatherings or travel.” Potential side effects, though uncommon, include nosebleeds, headaches, and fatigue; individuals experiencing these should discontinue use. it’s also crucial to consult a doctor before using azelastine if taking other medications, as it may cause interactions. The spray is known to have a bitter aftertaste.
Dr. Joks, an allergist and immunologist at NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, emphasizes that azelastine should not be considered a replacement for COVID-19 vaccination, which remains the most effective method for preventing severe illness. He also stresses the continued importance of preventative measures like hand washing, mask-wearing, and staying home when sick. Azelastine eye drops are also available for treating itchy, watery eyes.
The study does have limitations. The relatively small sample size and low number of infections reduced the study’s statistical power. The participant pool was not fully representative of the general population, being predominantly female (most participants were female), with an average age of 33 and 92% identifying as white. The trial was conducted at a single medical centre with a largely healthy and vaccinated population, potentially limiting the generalizability of the findings. Researchers also acknowledge the possibility that the spray’s bitter taste may have inadvertently revealed to participants whether thay were receiving the active medication or the placebo, potentially introducing bias.
Further, larger-scale trials are necessary to confirm these findings, explore azelastine’s potential against other respiratory illnesses, and assess its effectiveness across diverse populations and settings, particularly for those at higher risk of severe COVID-19 complications, such as seniors and individuals with underlying medical conditions.
