Therapeutic Strategies in the Management of COVID-19

Rajashri R Naik1, Ashok K Shakya2

  • 1Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan.

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates exploring repurposed antivirals and existing drugs for treatment. This review discusses various therapeutic strategies, including plant-based and traditional medicines, to manage coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The global emergence of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) since December 2019 has led to a pandemic, overwhelming healthcare systems worldwide.
  • Current treatment strategies focus on isolating patients and utilizing existing antivirals approved for SARS, MERS, and other viral infections, with some under clinical investigation.
  • No specific antiviral therapies or vaccines are currently clinically approved for COVID-19, necessitating drug repurposing to mitigate the healthcare burden.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and discuss various therapeutic strategies for managing COVID-19 patients.
  • To highlight the potential of repurposed drugs, including antivirals, US-FDA approved medications, and traditional remedies.
  • To emphasize the role of monoclonal antibodies and plant-based therapeutics in COVID-19 treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing therapeutic approaches for COVID-19.
  • Discussion of drug repurposing strategies, including antivirals, anti-malarials, anti-parasitics, and anti-HIV medications.
  • Exploration of plant-based therapeutics, traditional medicines, and monoclonal antibody treatments.

Main Results:

  • The study identifies several therapeutic avenues being explored for COVID-19 management.
  • Repurposing of existing drugs and antivirals shows promise in alleviating symptoms and reducing healthcare burdens.
  • Plant-based, traditional medicines, and monoclonal antibodies are also discussed as potential treatment options.

Conclusions:

  • Effective therapeutic strategies are crucial for managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Drug repurposing and the exploration of diverse treatments like plant-based therapies and monoclonal antibodies are vital for patient care.
  • Further research and clinical validation are needed to establish definitive treatments for COVID-19.

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