Melatonin as a Novel Supplement to COVID 19 Therapies

Abstract

The COVID-19 disease continues its rampage on the human population all over the world. The pathogenesis mechanisms involve various inflammatory and altered immune responses and oxidative processes, leading to complications like cytokines storm and death in vulnerable cases. Therefore, in this review, we summarize current evidence on melatonin therapy for viral infections with focus on possible underlying mechanisms of melatonin actions. Since this pandemic crisis elapses time, researchers worldwide are busy trying new solutions to overcome the heavy toll of the COVID-19 illness morbidity and mortality. One such drug with growing recognition is melatonin. Melatonin is a well-known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant molecule which helps in promoting adaptive immunity. Melatonin improves sleep and anxiety and also can prevent fibrosis. It is a readily available over-the-counter medication that can be manufactured easily in bulk, hence inexpensive to a patient from a developing nation like India. It can be orally administered and has a wide margin of safety. This article reviews the various facets, merits, demerits, and rationale of the re-use use of molecule melatonin, which is yet to be recognized.