Amantadine for Long COVID
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether amantadine, a medication, can alleviate symptoms of long COVID. Researchers aim to determine if it can reduce symptoms such as brain fog, tiredness, and trouble focusing. Participants will receive either amantadine with their usual care or just their usual care to compare effects. Those who had a confirmed COVID test within the last year and experience issues like memory problems or physical fatigue might be suitable candidates. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to important findings.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that amantadine is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that amantadine has been studied for safety in treating symptoms related to COVID-19. One study found that amantadine was generally well-tolerated and might help reduce fatigue in people recovering from COVID-19. While no severe side effects were reported when using it for post-COVID-19 symptoms, research continues to ensure its safety for these specific conditions.
The FDA has already approved amantadine for other uses, such as treating Parkinson's disease and certain types of flu, which means its safety is well-known. This provides some reassurance about its use, but it's important to remember that current studies specifically examine its effects and safety for long COVID symptoms.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard of care for Long COVID, which typically includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, counseling, and targeted medications, Amantadine offers a fresh approach. Amantadine is unique because it has antiviral and neuroprotective properties that may help alleviate persistent symptoms by modulating neurotransmitter activity, which is not the focus of current treatments. Researchers are excited about Amantadine because it targets different underlying mechanisms of Long COVID, offering hope for more comprehensive symptom relief.
What evidence suggests that amantadine might be an effective treatment for long COVID?
Research into using amantadine for long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), continues. In this trial, one group of participants will receive standard care plus amantadine, while another group will receive only standard care. Some reports suggest that amantadine might help with brain-related symptoms like memory and attention problems. It has previously treated Parkinson's disease, which involves similar issues. However, a recent study found that amantadine does not affect the progression of COVID-19 itself. While these observations offer some hope, more evidence is needed to confirm its effectiveness for long COVID symptoms.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Amy Mathews, M.D.
Principal Investigator
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults aged 20-65 who had a confirmed COVID-19 test result between 8 weeks and one year before the initial visit. It's aimed at those experiencing long-COVID symptoms like decreased endurance, fatigue, weakness, depression, or anxiety.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive amantadine or standard of care for cognitive dysfunction in long-COVID
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Amantadine
Amantadine is already approved in United States, Canada, European Union for the following indications:
- Parkinson's disease
- Extrapyramidal reactions
- Influenza A virus infections
- Dyskinesia in patients with Parkinson's disease
- Parkinson's disease
- Drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions
- Parkinson's disease
- Extrapyramidal reactions
- Influenza A virus infections
- Parkinson's disease
- Extrapyramidal reactions
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Lead Sponsor