This common drug can prevent long Covid: study

A widely used medication is showing promise in the fight against long COVID, offering a potential new avenue for relief for millions affected by the lingering effects of the virus.

Understanding Long COVID and a Potential Solution

Around one in four people who contract COVID-19 experience long-haul symptoms, enduring fatigue, brain fog, chronic cough, and chest pain for three months or longer. Now, research published January 29 in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases suggests a common diabetes medication, metformin, could significantly reduce the risk of developing these persistent symptoms.

Did You Know? Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School conducted studies examining the effects of metformin on adults with varying levels of COVID-19 risk.

The study found that, on average, one case of long COVID is prevented for every 50 cases treated with 14 days of metformin. This makes it the first intervention widely tested across trials involving individuals with low, standard, and high-risk factors for long COVID.

How Metformin Works

Metformin, a drug with a safety record spanning over 60 years, is thought to work by interfering with the virus’s replication process. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, potentially boosting the body’s immune response. The medication has previously been linked to potentially slowing down aging and offering protection against conditions like cancer, cognitive decline, and heart disease.

Expert Insight: The accessibility of metformin – as an off-patent, generic drug costing just 10 to 20 cents per pill – is a significant factor. This affordability could make a substantial difference in equitable access to preventative treatment for long COVID, even for those without insurance.

While generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of metformin are typically gastrointestinal, including nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

Looking Ahead

Researchers note that metformin can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments for COVID-19. However, it remains unknown whether the drug is effective in preventing long COVID in children. Currently, an estimated 200 million people worldwide take metformin daily, primarily for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Beyond its potential impact on long COVID, ongoing research suggests metformin may offer benefits for other serious health concerns, including colorectal cancer, obesity, and cardiovascular health. It may even possess anti-cancer properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is long COVID?

Long COVID refers to the persistence of symptoms for three months or longer after an initial COVID-19 infection, including fatigue, brain fog, chronic cough, and chest pain. Around one in four people who contract COVID-19 develop long-haul symptoms.

How was metformin studied for long COVID?

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School looked at several studies of various adults taking metformin for coronavirus. The study was the first intervention widely tested across large trials with low-, standard- and high-risk adults for preventing long COVID.

What are the potential side effects of metformin?

While generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of metformin are typically gastrointestinal, including nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

Could this widely available and affordable medication offer a new hope for those struggling with the long-term effects of COVID-19?