Coronaviruses are enveloped viruses with an RNA genome. Carrageenans are sulfate polysaccharides synthesized by red algae. Studies conducted in adults and children with the common cold showed the effectiveness of the use of Carrageenan in nasal spray. For decades, the antiviral action of Carrageenans has been described in numerous studies with different viruses that infect humans: herpes viruses types 1 and 2, human immunodeficiency virus, human papillomavirus, H1N1 influenza virus, dengue virus, rhinovirus, hepatitis A virus, and enteroviruses. Studies on the dynamics of COVID-19 disease show an intense and rapid pharyngeal multiplication in the first 3-5 days of the onset of symptoms, prior to the onset of pulmonary disease. Finally, this molecule has shown a viricidal effect against SARS-Cov2 in vitro. All this underscores the potential value of a therapy that inhibits the virus in the rhinopharynx.
This is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessing the use a nasal spray containing Iota-Carrageenan in the prophylaxis of COVID-19 disease in health-workers.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
400
Participants will received a nasal spray with Iota-Carrageenan or placebo 4 times a day during 21 days
centro de educación médica e investigaciones clinicas (CEMIC)
Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires F.D., Argentina
RECRUITINGdiagnose of COVID19 disease
COVID 19 disease will be defined for clinical diagnose and positive Polymerase Chain Reaction test
Time frame: 28 days
Progression to a more severe disease state, defined as need for oxygen therapy.
number of subjects who develop severe COVID19 disease
Time frame: 28 days
lasting of disease
number of days with clinical symptoms
Time frame: 28 days
Incidence of COVID-19 disease onset in the first week after treatment
number of subjects who develop the disease within one week after finishing treatment
Time frame: 1 week after finishing treatment
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