Results
Title

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids as Potential Treatments for COVID-19-Induced Anosmia.

Authors

Wang, Yu-Han; Lin, Chung-Wei; Huang, Chiung-Wei

Abstract

Some individuals with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) experience anosmia, or loss of smell. Although the prevalence of anosmia has decreased with the emergence of the Omicron variant, it remains a significant concern. This review examines the potential role of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly omega-3 PUFAs, in treating COVID-19-induced anosmia by focusing on the underlying mechanisms of the condition. Omega-3 PUFAs are known for their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and neurotransmission-enhancing properties, which could potentially aid in olfactory recovery. However, study findings are inconsistent. For instance, a placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial found no significant effect of omega-3 PUFA supplementation on olfactory recovery in patients with COVID-19-induced anosmia. These mixed results highlight the limitations of existing research, including small sample sizes, lack of placebo controls, short follow-up periods, and combined treatments. Therefore, more rigorous, large-scale studies are urgently needed to definitively assess the therapeutic potential of omega-3 PUFAs for olfactory dysfunction. Further research is also crucial to explore the broader role of PUFAs in managing viral infections and promoting sensory recovery.

Subjects

SARS-CoV-2; UNSATURATED fatty acids; SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant; OMEGA-3 fatty acids; CLINICAL trials

Publication

Biomedicines, 2024, Vol 12, Issue 9, p2085

ISSN

2227-9059

Publication type

Academic Journal

DOI

10.3390/biomedicines12092085