Correlation between Medications Used during COVID Infection and Post-conditions after the Acute Phase of Infection: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, off-label medication prescribing and utilizing herbal products and multiple vitamins in the treatment, prevention, and symptom management of COVID-19 was an urgently needed practice to halt the SARS-CoV-2 infection crisis and progression. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the correlation between medications used during the pandemic and SARS-CoV-2 infection post-recovery symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted on recovered COVID-19 patients. There were 20 multiple-choice questions, including patient demographics, treatment, and post-recovery symptoms. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to investigate significant relationships. In addition, Binary logistic regression was performed to determine confounders. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. Results: Medications and supplements varied in their therapeutic effects on SARS-CoV-2 post-recovery symptoms. Patients who took vitamin D and calcium experienced increased symptom frequency, and patients taking ACE inhibitors experienced more headaches and coughs. Furthermore, patients receiving azithromycin were asymptomatic after recovery. Patients who took H2 antagonists reported persistent headaches and muscle pain. Conclusion: Patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 have responded differently to medications, multivitamins, and herbal supplements. Patients reported resolution of some symptoms and persistence of others post-recovery. Therefore, expert opinion should be considered in COVID-19 management until randomized controlled trials answer many questions and determine medications' safety and efficacy in prevention, treatment strategies, and symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection post-recovery.