A Synbiotic Preparation (SIM01) for Post-Acute Covid-19 Syndrome in Hong Kong (Recovery): A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 463 patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS) in Hong Kong, the synbiotic preparation SIM01 significantly alleviated multiple PACS symptoms over 6 months, including fatigue, memory loss, difficulty in concentration, gastrointestinal upset, and general unwellness. The study identified gut microbiome modulation as a potential mechanism for these benefits, with increased bacterial diversity and short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria observed in the SIM01 group. Adverse event rates were similar between the SIM01 and placebo groups, indicating that SIM01 is a safe and promising treatment for PACS. Further studies are recommended to explore its effects on other chronic or post-infection conditions.