- New findings indicate that an over-the-counter nasal spray containing Azelastine could reduce the likelihood of contracting COVID-19.
- Azelastine might also offer some defense against other viruses.
- Medical experts discuss its potential usefulness, alongside possible side effects.
With the rise in COVID-19 and common cold cases, it’s completely reasonable to look for ways to protect yourself from getting sick. Sure, staying updated on vaccinations, maintaining good hand hygiene, and wearing masks in crowded spaces are proven methods, but recent research suggests that a specific nasal spray could also help in minimizing your risk of illness.
The nasal spray, known as azelastine, has shown promise in a recent phase 2 clinical trial published in JAMA, indicating it may help ward off COVID-19 and the common cold. During this study, conducted in Germany, 450 healthy volunteers participated, most of whom were vaccinated against COVID-19.
Participants were divided into two groups—one group used the azelastine spray in each nostril at least three times daily for about 56 days, while the other received a placebo. Testing for COVID-19 occurred twice weekly for all participants.
Results revealed that those using azelastine were approximately three times less likely to contract COVID-19 compared to the placebo group. In fact, only five individuals (2.2%) in the azelastine group tested positive, while 15 (6.7%) in the placebo category did. Interestingly, those in the azelastine group also experienced shorter durations of positive tests—an average of 3.4 days versus 5.14 days in the other group.
But that’s not all; those utilizing azelastine had lower rates of various viral infections, including the common cold. The findings indicated a contraction rate of 8.4% in the azelastine group against 18.8% in the placebo group, with durations of illness also favoring the azelastine users (1.73 days compared to 2.75 days).
These findings, while impressive, lead to a critical conversation about azelastine. It’s an over-the-counter antihistamine known for calming allergy symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose. You can typically find azelastine nasal sprays in stores, often recognized by brands like AstePro.
Azelastine works by blocking histamine—something that drives allergy symptoms—according to Jamie Alan, Ph.D., from Michigan State University. This means it functions similarly to other common antihistamines like Claritin. However, this study correlates its use with reduced risks of COVID and other viruses, but it doesn’t fully explain why this is the case.
Doctors speculate that azelastine might inhibit viral functions by interfering with proteins that viruses use to invade cells. Both Amesh Adalja, M.D., from Johns Hopkins, and Thomas Russo, M.D., from the University at Buffalo, suggest that azelastine could potentially prevent viruses from attaching to cells and might even moderate immune responses.
Furthermore, there’s a notion that less inflammation in the upper respiratory system could make it harder for a virus to set up camp, according to Dr. Alan. Earlier investigations had looked into azelastine as a potential COVID-19 treatment early in the pandemic, with some studies hinting that it might bind to receptors that SARS-CoV-2 uses to enter cells.
Azelastine Side Effects
While azelastine is deemed safe and suitable for long-term use, there are potential side effects, as noted by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, including:
- Bitter taste
- Nasal discomfort
- Sneezing and runny nose
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Dry mouth
- Nosebleeds
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Tiredness
Participants from both groups experienced side effects, though they were more common among those using azelastine. Side effects included a bitter taste and nosebleeds, occurring in about 6.6% of the azelastine group compared to 4% in the placebo group.
Should You Use Azelastine to Lower Your COVID Risk?
Medical professionals are optimistic about azelastine’s potential in reducing COVID-19 risk but emphasize that further research is needed. Dr. Adalja points out this is still in phase 2 trials, which means it’s too early to consider it a proven preventative measure.
Azelastine might exhibit some antiviral properties, as noted by Dr. Schaffner, who also mentions it could potentially reduce the risk of flu and RSV. However, compliance is a tricky issue—taking a nasal spray multiple times a day isn’t easy or even feasible for everyone, he notes. Many may find it simpler and more cost-effective to just get vaccinated.
Dr. Russo points out that there may be certain scenarios—like attending high-risk events—where it might be beneficial to use azelastine a few days before and after to enhance protection. Yet, it’s essential to remember that this shouldn’t replace traditional preventive measures like vaccines and mask-wearing, as emphasized by several experts.
Ultimately, as exciting as these findings are, they highlight the need for additional research before making any definitive recommendations about azelastine as a protective measure against COVID-19 and other viruses.
