What is the role of supplementation with ascorbic acid, zinc, vitamin D, or <i>N</i>-acetylcysteine for prevention or treatment of COVID-19?
Seth R. Bauer, Aanchal Kapoor, Mary Rath, Suma A. Thomas
Abstract
Several agents intended to supplement dietary intake or endogenous molecules may have a theoretical role in preventing or treating COVID-19. Because of their potential to influence immune response, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), zinc, vitamin D, and <i>N</i>-acetylcysteine have been hypothesized to be useful for prevention or treatment of COVID-19. The authors outline the biologic plausibility, applicable clinical data, and potential role of each of these agents.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineAcetylcysteineAscorbic acidCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)ZincVitamin C2019-20 coronavirus outbreakVitaminSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)PediatricsVirologyInternal medicineFood scienceAntioxidantBiochemistryDiseaseOutbreakInfectious disease (medical specialty)MetallurgyMaterials scienceChemistryVitamin C and Antioxidants ResearchVitamin D Research StudiesTherapeutic Uses of Natural Elements