Azelastine Nasal Spray for Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Infections: A Phase 2 Randomized Clinical Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Importance

Limited pharmaceutical options exist for preexposure prophylaxis of COVID-19 beyond vaccination. Azelastine, an antihistamine nasal spray used for decades to treat allergic rhinitis, has in vitro antiviral activity against respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.

Objective

To determine the efficacy and safety of azelastine nasal spray for prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infections in healthy adults.

Design, setting, and participants

A phase 2, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-center trial was conducted from March 2023 to July 2024. Healthy adults from the general population were enrolled at the Saarland University Hospital in Germany.

Interventions

Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive azelastine, 0.1%, nasal spray or placebo 3 times

SUBMITTER: Lehr T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12406145 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature