A common over-the-counter nasal spray, used primarily for allergy relief, has demonstrated potential in reducing the risk of COVID-19 infection. A recent clinical trial published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that the antihistamine azelastine may also serve as an antiviral agent against several respiratory infections, including influenza, RSV, and the COVID-19 virus. This study, conducted by researchers at Saarland University Hospital in Germany, builds upon prior research suggesting the spray’s efficacy.
The trial involved 450 adults, predominantly in their early thirties. Participants were divided into two groups: one received a placebo while the other was given the nasal spray. Over nearly two months, participants were instructed to use the nasal spray three times daily and underwent rapid COVID-19 testing twice a week. Results indicated a significantly lower infection rate among those using the nasal spray, with only 2.2% of this group testing positive compared to 6.7% in the placebo group.
Dr. Robert Bals, the senior author of the study and a professor of internal medicine and pneumology at Saarland University, stated, “Our findings suggest azelastine could serve as a scalable, over-the-counter prophylactic against COVID-19, especially when community transmission is elevated or in high-risk settings such as crowded indoor events or travel.”
While the study presents promising results, Dr. Bals cautioned about its limitations. The trial exclusively involved young and relatively healthy individuals, which may affect the generalizability of the findings to broader populations.
The timing of this research coincides with a slight increase in COVID-19 cases over the summer months. The recent emergence of the variant known as XFG, or “Stratus,” accounted for 14% of cases reported in the United States by late June, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Despite this, the World Health Organization currently classifies Stratus as a “low” public health risk on a global scale.
This study adds to the ongoing exploration of accessible preventive measures against COVID-19, particularly as new variants continue to emerge and challenge public health efforts. As research progresses, the potential for azelastine to provide a non-prescription option for reducing COVID-19 transmission may emerge as a significant development in the fight against the pandemic.
