Paxlovid, Pfizer’s anti-viral medication for the treatment of COVID-19, is showcased in this illustration. (October 7, 2022)
Image credit: Wolfgang Rattay | Reuters
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced on Monday the commencement of mid-stage clinical trials to assess the efficacy of four potential treatments, including Pfizer’s antiviral Covid-19 pill, Paxlovid, in addressing the symptoms of long Covid.
Long Covid refers to the continuation or development of symptoms in the weeks or months following an initial Covid infection. It affects an estimated 23 million Americans.
While healthcare providers typically manage the often debilitating symptoms associated with long Covid, such as chronic pain, memory loss, and intense fatigue, the lack of a specific treatment has driven some patients to seek unproven and potentially dangerous remedies.
Acting NIH Director Dr. Lawrence Tabak affirmed their commitment to finding effective treatments for long Covid, acknowledging the urgency to alleviate suffering.
The NIH will conduct clinical trials involving groups of 100 to 300 patients with long Covid symptoms to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of these treatments, which include drugs and medical devices.
The first phase of the trial will focus on testing a longer dosing regimen of Paxlovid to determine if it improves long Covid symptoms.
Paxlovid is typically administered within five days of Covid symptom onset to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death, as approved by the Food and Drug Administration in May. A full course of treatment consists of three pills taken twice a day for five days.
In addition to medication, the NIH study will also assess cognitive symptoms such as brain fog and memory problems.
The study will examine the efficacy of medical treatments like BrainHQ, a web-based brain training program, and a device that uses electrical stimulation to enhance brain activity.
The NIH plans to initiate more clinical trials to evaluate at least seven additional treatments in the upcoming months.
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