Could Nitric oxide treat COVID-19?
It is hard until now to answer this question! Despite that, no one can ignore our successful experience in using Nitric oxide in SARS. So what is Nitric oxide (NO)?
Nitric oxide is a naturally produced compound in our bodies that regulates several organs. It contributes to vessel homeostasis by inhibiting vascular smooth muscle contraction and growth, platelet aggregation, and leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium. Not only this, (NO) protects tissues from damage due to low blood supply. Moreover, it works on decreasing the heart muscle contractility and regulate its rate.
Interestingly, it was found that patients that are suffering from atherosclerosis, diabetes, or hypertension often show impaired NO pathways. It could be one of the reasons why COVID-19 is more aggressive on elderly and chronic patients, but not studies or publications support this claim until now.
According to Åke Lundkvist, a professor at Uppsala University, “To our knowledge, nitric oxide is the only substance shown so far to have a direct effect on SARS-CoV-2,”
Due to its anti-viral effect and successful usage of NO in inhalation gas to treat SARS in 2003, The research group at Uppsala University is planning to proceed by investigating the antiviral effects of NO emitted in gas form.
The timing and dosage of starting treatment probably play an important role in the outcome, and now need to be explored as soon as possible,” Åke Lundkvist says.
