Italian Study Proposes Using Hypothalamic Phospholipid Liposomes To Treat Long COVID Conditions Such As Chronic Fatigue Syndrome And Cognitive Issues
Thailand Medical News Team Aug 29, 2023 7 months, 4 weeks, 1 day, 6 hours, 10 minutes ago
Long COVID: In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new medical challenge has emerged: Post-COVID-19 condition, more commonly known as
Long COVID. Characterized by a range of persistent symptoms, this condition has raised significant concern within the medical community. A study conducted by the Italian Group for Antimicrobial Stewardship (GISA) in Pisa, Italy, delves into the potential of using hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes as an innovative therapeutic approach to tackle some of the prominent symptoms associated with Long COVID, including Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and cognitive impairment, often referred to as "brain fog".
Long COVID presents a diverse array of symptoms that affect various bodily systems. Common symptoms include fatigue, cognitive impairment, breathlessness, anosmia (loss of smell), and mental health issues. These symptoms can manifest in different patterns, such as persisting after the acute phase of COVID-19, emerging following an asymptomatic period, evolving over time, or exacerbating pre-existing conditions. The heterogeneity of Long COVID makes it challenging to diagnose and treat effectively.
One of the most debilitating syndromes associated with Long COVID is ME/CFS, which can cause profound and persistent fatigue, post-exertional malaise, non-restorative sleep, and cognitive impairment. This condition has been linked to viral infections in the past, and its prevalence has made it a significant focus of research in the context of Long COVID.
The Italian study examines the potential of hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes, specifically a product known as Liposom Forte®, to address the cognitive impairment and fatigue commonly experienced in Long COVID, especially in ME/CFS. These liposomes have been utilized as adjuvant therapy for cerebral metabolic alterations resulting from neuroendocrine disorders. They are derived from porcine brain tissue and consist mainly of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylserine.
The study argues that hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes may have several pharmacological effects that align with the pathophysiology of Long COVID. The monoaminergic hypothesis suggests that alterations in neurotransmission, particularly involving dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline, play a role in the neuropsychiatric manifestations of Long COVID. The study proposes that hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes may positively impact monoaminergic neurotransmission, thereby alleviating symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
Furthermore, Long COVID is associated with neuroinflammation, demyelination, impaired neurogenesis, and cerebral hypometabolism. The study posits that hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes could counteract these mechanisms by promoting neurogenesis, mitigating inflammation, and supporting myelination. Preliminary evidence suggests that these liposomes may enhance dendritic growth, antagonize demyelination, and positively influence neuroinflammation.
While the study acknowledges the absence of specific clinical trials on the efficacy of hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes in Long COVID, it draws upon evidence from other studies that support their potential use. Clinical trials with Li
posom Forte® have shown positive effects on depression, anxiety, cognitive function, and even male sexual health issues. These findings provide a strong rationale for exploring their use in Long COVID, particularly in addressing ME/CFS and cognitive impairment.
However, the study emphasizes the need for rigorous controlled clinical research to substantiate the efficacy of hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes in Long COVID treatment. While initial clinical experiences seem promising, the study calls for larger-scale, well-designed trials to ascertain their true potential and safety profile. The authors underscore the importance of evidence-based medicine and a multidisciplinary approach to treating Long COVID, incorporating pharmacotherapy alongside physical and neuro-cognitive rehabilitation.
In conclusion, Long COVID presents a complex clinical challenge with a wide range of symptoms, including cognitive impairment and chronic fatigue. The Italian study by GISA proposes an innovative approach to addressing these symptoms by utilizing hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes. While the clinical evidence is still emerging, the study's findings provide a compelling rationale for further investigation. As the medical community continues to grapple with the long-term effects of COVID-19, the potential of hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes offers a glimmer of hope for improved treatment strategies and enhanced quality of life for Long COVID patients.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed Journal of Clinical Medicine.
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/17/5478
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