Exploring the Utility of Fluticasone in COVID-19 Management
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 13th, 2023
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To combat SARS-CoV-2 infection, antiviral treatments are considered optimal. However, their high cost per dose makes them less practical for low-resource settings. Dexamethasone and budesonide have shown promise in managing acute infections. Fluticasone, another glucocorticoid, can be inhaled to reduce inflammation. Hence, a study was conducted to assess the potential of fluticasone in COVID-19 management.
The study involved 1407 participants who had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via PCR within the past 10 days and had experienced at least two symptoms over the past week. Of these participants, 64.8% had received full vaccination, and all were receiving outpatient care. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or 200 micrograms of fluticasone furoate administered nasally daily for 14 days, with their health monitored for an additional two weeks. The study's findings indicated that fluticasone did not improve the rate of recovery, or help reduce symptoms severity when compared to placebo. This lack of observed benefits contributes to the ongoing debate regarding the overall effectiveness of inhaled glucocorticoids in the treatment of COVID-19.
The study involved 1407 participants who had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via PCR within the past 10 days and had experienced at least two symptoms over the past week. Of these participants, 64.8% had received full vaccination, and all were receiving outpatient care. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or 200 micrograms of fluticasone furoate administered nasally daily for 14 days, with their health monitored for an additional two weeks. The study's findings indicated that fluticasone did not improve the rate of recovery, or help reduce symptoms severity when compared to placebo. This lack of observed benefits contributes to the ongoing debate regarding the overall effectiveness of inhaled glucocorticoids in the treatment of COVID-19.