Scientists Discover Safe Nasal Spray May Offer Strong COVID-19 Protection

You may be used to receiving COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. You may also feel something familiar when putting on a mask in crowds. These actions are common ways to help prevent COVID-19 infection.

Recent research suggests another option for protection: an over-the-counter nasal spray. The study found that azelastine, an OTC nasal spray, could reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. Researchers also found that azelastine may protect against other respiratory viruses.

How Did Researchers Show Azelastine Can Protect against COVID-19?

A Phase 2 clinical trial published in JAMA Network tested azelastine’s effectiveness. Researchers found that azelastine protected against both COVID-19 and the common cold. The common cold is often caused by rhinovirus.

The study was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled. It included 450 healthy participants, all recruited in Germany. Over 99% of these participants had received at least one COVID-19 vaccine. Researchers divided them into two groups for comparison.

One group used an azelastine nasal spray in both nostrils three times a day. This procedure continued for about 56 days. The other group used a placebo spray. Researchers tested all participants twice a week for COVID-19 using PCR tests.

Azelastine users had three times lower chances of contracting COVID-19. Only five participants using azelastine, or 2.2%, tested positive. Meanwhile, 15 participants in the placebo group, or 6.7%, tested positive. Azelastine users also tested positive for a shorter time. Those using placebo tested positive for about 5.14 days. The azelastine group averaged only 3.4 days of positive results.

Why Could Azelastine Protect against Respiratory Viruses?

Azelastine is an over-the-counter antihistamine. It helps relieve inflammation and allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. The medication is available at many pharmacies without a prescription.

These properties may help explain why azelastine reduces the risk of COVID-19 and other viruses, including rhinovirus. However, this study alone cannot confirm the exact reason. Researchers believe azelastine may inhibit virus protein function, which could make infection less likely.

The drug also interferes with the H2 receptor, a histamine receptor that may help viruses enter cells. By doing so, azelastine could prevent viruses from attaching to human cells and support overall immunity.

Its anti-inflammatory effects may also reduce inflammation in the upper respiratory system. This lowered inflammation could further block virus attachment and infection. Some research also suggests azelastine may interact with a receptor used by SARS-CoV-2 to infiltrate host cells. The drug could also help reduce or eliminate viral load from nasal passages.

Is Azelastine a Safe Way to Lower COVID-19 Risk?

Azelastine could be a useful tool to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection. However, researchers say more studies are needed to confirm its full effectiveness. Harmful side effects from azelastine are unlikely, though users should check for any ingredient allergies before use.

One limitation of azelastine nasal spray is consistent reapplication. In the clinical trial, participants used the spray three to five times per day. For many people, remembering even a single daily dose can be difficult.

Vaccination remains the most affordable and accessible option for most people. Still, azelastine might offer added protection in crowded situations. For example, someone could apply the spray before and after a wedding or concert.

This nasal spray does not replace vaccination, masking, or other COVID-19 precautions. However, if future research supports these findings, azelastine could complement vaccines as part of a broader prevention strategy.

Conclusion

Azelastine shows promise as a safe tool to reduce COVID-19 risk. It will not replace vaccination or other standard precautions. Future research could confirm its role in supporting public health.

Have an upcoming trip? Passport Health offers a wide variety of options to help keep you safe from disease, including vaccines. Call or book online to schedule your appointment today.

Logan Hamilton is a health and wellness freelance writer for hire. He’s passionate about crafting crystal-clear, captivating, and credible content that elevates brands and establishes trust. When not writing, Logan can be found hiking, sticking his nose in bizarre books, or playing drums in a local rock band. Find him at loganjameshamilton.com.