TLDR Common dermatology drugs were considered but are controversial for COVID-19 treatment.
The document reviewed the potential use of common dermatological drugs as therapies for COVID-19, focusing on antimalarials, antiparasitics, antiandrogens, and melatonin. Antimalarials like hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine showed mixed results, with some studies indicating no significant benefit and others suggesting potential harm. Ivermectin showed promising in vitro results, but clinical evidence was lacking. Antiandrogens were noted for reducing viral entry into cells, with a study suggesting a link between androgens and COVID-19 severity in males. Melatonin was proposed for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Overall, while these drugs had theoretical benefits, conclusive clinical evidence was insufficient, and further research was needed.
139 citations
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December 2020 in “Cell Stem Cell” Male hormones affect COVID-19 severity and certain drugs targeting these hormones could help reduce the risk.
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September 2020 in “Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas”
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June 2020 in “Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas” Spironolactone is effective for acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, female hair loss, and hirsutism but is underused in dermatology.
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April 2020 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Male pattern hair loss could hint at androgens affecting COVID-19 severity.
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February 2018 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Melatonin may benefit skin health and could be a promising treatment in dermatology.
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January 2021 in “Genetics and Molecular Biology” COVID-19 treatments and vaccines face challenges due to genetic differences in people and the virus.
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May 2021 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Possible link between androgens and COVID-19 severity; more research needed.
121 citations
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November 2020 in “Endocrine” Male hormones like testosterone may make COVID-19 worse, and testing for sensitivity to these hormones could help predict how severe a patient's symptoms might be. Treatments that reduce these hormones are being explored.
October 2022 in “Journal of experimental and clinical medicine” Repurposing existing drugs for COVID-19 shows promise but requires more research to confirm effectiveness.