Research Shows Antidepressant Fluvoxamine Reduces Covid-19 Hospitalizations

In a recent clinical trial, researchers have determined that covid-19 patients who take fluvoxamine are less likely to be hospitalized in comparison to patients who don’t take antidepressants.

Fluvoxamine is a widely prescribed antidepressant falling in the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRI’s and is used to treat patients suffering from obsessive compulsive disorders or depression. The drug has been classified as a safe medication which has a course period of around 10 days.

Due to its low cost and easy availability, doctors are considering it as a safe alternative to covid-therapies. Other treatments such as monoclonal antibody treatments typically cost more and require patients to undergo an infusion.

Previous research conducted for the fluvoxamine suggests that the drug’s anti-inflammatory abilities help fight against covid, however doctors are still not sure of its exact functioning and is still being studied. Dr Edward Mills, a lead researcher and professor at McMaster University in Hamilton led a research trial with his colleagues to help understand the effects of the drug on covid patients.

The researchers gathered data to conclude patients who received fluvoxamine were 32% less likely to be hospitalized for covid. Dr Mills said, the research results have been published in the Lancet Global Health. However, more evidence is needed before the drug can be recommended as a safe alternative to fight against the deadly virus.

©Photo: nbcnews