Trial of new drug for protracted Covid begins

In the UK, the first trial of a new drug has begun, which is designed to help eliminate the symptoms of prolonged covid – excessive fatigue and muscle weakness. They are experienced by more than half of people with a long course of Covid.

Studies show that 56% of patients in whom Covid has taken a long course suffer from severe fatigue. It is precisely such patients that the drug AXA1125, which began clinical trials in the UK, is intended to help.

According to British experts, prolonged Covid is a condition in which signs and symptoms persist for more than four weeks from the onset of infection with coronavirus. Among the manifestations of the disease:

• dyspnea;
• extreme fatigue;
• problems with memory and concentration (“brain fog”);
• prolonged cough throughout the illness.

If AXA1125 shows good results in reducing fatigue, it could also be effective for people with ME/CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as Myalgic Encephalitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome), writes Mirror.

The drug targets mitochondria – the “energy stations” of cells that regulate cellular processes in the body and are responsible for oxygen respiration. The main function of the mitochondria is to convert nutrients into useful energy using oxygen molecules – the synthesis of ATP molecules. This process of generating energy within the cell is known as cellular respiration.

Studies have shown that lactic acid accumulates faster in the muscles of patients with long-term covid, which is believed to be due to mitochondrial dysfunction. This causes muscle soreness and makes exercise difficult.

Scientists are eagerly awaiting the results of clinical trials of the new drug. In the meantime, a few tips for those who are still suffering from long covid:

1. Don’t expect too much of yourself during your recovery, listen to your body.
2. Restore your fitness gradually, rest when necessary.
3. Set goals for yourself so that you can see small successes every day.

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