A new study considers Vitamin A nasal drops to be trialled for those who have lost their sense of smell after having Covid-19, the University of East Anglia (UEA) said.
The university said in a statement on Wednesday.
“The 12-week Apollo trial will treat people who have experienced smell loss or an altered sense of smell as a result of viral infections with nasal drops containing the vitamin.”
- How Sokoto State residents perceive impact of COVID-19
- Pharmacists set to sensitize Kaduna residents on COVID-19 vaccines
- I spent over N6m to treat COVID-19 – Actor Pete Edochie’s son
The university said research from Germany had shown the potential benefit of the vitamin.
It said its team will explore how this treatment works to help repair tissues in the nose damaged by viruses.
“The researchers hope the study could one day help improve the lives of millions around the world who suffer from smell loss, by returning their fifth sense.
“It came after a study by an international group of smell experts, published in the journal International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology in April.
“Which advised against using steroids to treat smell loss and instead suggested “smell training.”
Carl Philpott, from UEA’s Norwich Medical School and one of the researchers, said there was very little evidence that steroids will help with smell loss.
He noted that steroids have potential side effects including fluid retention, high blood pressure and problems with mood swings and behaviour.
He recommended those who have experienced smell loss to sniff at least four different odours, twice daily for several months.
Philpott said the method aims to help recovery based on neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself to compensate for a change or injury.
“Those interested in participating in the university’s vitamin A study are asked to seek a referral from their general practitioner to the Smell and Taste Clinic at the James Paget Hospital in Norfolk’s Great Yarmouth UK.
“The study, which is being funded by the National Institute for Health Research, will begin recruiting participants in December.”(PA Media/dpa/NAN)
