Inhaled Niclosamide as a Potential COVID-19 Antiviral Treatment

On September 29, 2020, researchers at The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy released promising study results of a new method to treat the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that causes COVID-19. These Texas researchers found the antiviral niclosamide, when incorporated with human lysozyme as a carrier molecule, shows potential as an effective COVID-19 treatment when delivered directly to the airways.

Niclosamide, already U.S. FDA approved for other treatments, may serve as a promising alternative or additional therapy option to remdesivir (Veklury) for the treatment of COVID-19.

“We have demonstrated that administration of niclosamide-lysozyme particles to the airways of mice with established, lethal SARS-CoV-2 infection improves survival, greatly reduces lung tissue damage and significantly reduces viral loads in the lungs, brain, and kidneys,” says Dr. Ashlee Brunaugh, graduate research fellow.