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Treatments for COVID-19: Lessons from 2020 and new therapeutic options
Fanny Salasc1, Thomas Lahlali2, Emilie Laurent1
1CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (Team VirPath), Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France; VirNext, Faculté de Médecine RTH Laennec, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, 69008, Lyon, France; International Associated Laboratory RespiVir (LIA VirPath-LVMC France-Québec), Université Laval, QC, G1V 4G2, Québec, Canada.
Abstract:
To face the COVID-19 pandemic, prophylactic vaccines have been developed in record time, but vaccine coverage is still limited, accessibility is not equitable worldwide, and the vaccines are not fully effective against emerging variants. Therefore, therapeutic treatments are urgently needed to control the pandemic and treat vulnerable populations, but despite all efforts made, options remain scarce. However, the knowledge gained during 2020 constitutes an invaluable platform from which to build future therapies. In this review, we highlight the main drug repurposing strategies and achievements made over the first 18 months of the pandemic, but also discuss the antivirals, immunomodulators and drug combinations that could be used in the near future to cure COVID-19.
Insights
Therapeutic treatments for COVID-19 are crucial due to limited vaccine access and effectiveness. This review explores drug repurposing and future therapies, including antivirals and immunomodulators, to combat the pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- COVID-19 vaccines have limitations in coverage, equitable access, and effectiveness against variants.
- Effective therapeutic treatments for COVID-19 are scarce, necessitating urgent development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review drug repurposing strategies and achievements for COVID-19 therapies.
- To discuss potential future treatments including antivirals, immunomodulators, and drug combinations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of drug repurposing efforts during the first 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Analysis of scientific knowledge gained to inform future therapeutic development.
Main Results:
- Significant progress in identifying and repurposing drugs for COVID-19 treatment.
- Emerging antivirals, immunomodulators, and combination therapies show promise.
Conclusions:
- Drug repurposing has yielded valuable insights for COVID-19 treatment.
- Future therapies combining antivirals and immunomodulators are essential for pandemic control and vulnerable populations.
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