A recent clinical trial conducted by Professor Robert Bals at Saarland University Medical Center investigated the efficacy of azelastine nasal spray in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infections. The trial, which involved 450 participants, divided them into two groups: 227 individuals received the azelastine spray three times daily for 56 days, while 223 participants were given a placebo.
The findings indicated a significant difference in infection rates between the two groups. Only 2.2% of participants in the azelastine group contracted SARS-CoV-2, compared to 6.7% of those in the placebo group. All infections were confirmed through PCR testing. Additionally, the azelastine group exhibited fewer symptomatic infections and a lower incidence of rhinovirus infections, with 1.8% developing rhinovirus compared to 6.3% in the control group.
Azelastine has been available for decades as an over-the-counter treatment for hay fever, and prior in vitro studies hinted at its potential antiviral properties against various respiratory viruses. Professor Bals noted that this trial marks the first time such protective effects have been demonstrated in a real-world context.
The results suggest potential practical applications for azelastine as an accessible prophylactic measure, particularly for vulnerable populations during high infection rates or prior to travel. However, Professor Bals emphasized the necessity for further research, advocating for larger, multicenter trials to explore the spray's effectiveness against other respiratory pathogens.
The study, named 'CONTAIN,' also involved contributions from various institutions, including the Institute of Clinical Pharmacy and the Institute of Virology, alongside the pharmaceutical company URSAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH, which sponsored and manufactured the product. This collaboration exemplifies the synergy between academic research, industry, and public health initiatives in the Saarland region.