Published in the Australian Journal of Otolaryngology, this combined in vitro and in vivo study evaluated how effective a 0.5% povidone-iodine nasal spray (Nasodine®) is at inactivating SARS-CoV-2. The researchers aimed to validate laboratory results in real-world human subjects with confirmed COVID-19.
Key Findings
In vitro results (lab tests):
- The PVP-I nasal spray eliminated 99.97% of the virus after 15 seconds of exposure.
- After 60 seconds, no active virus remained detectable.
- This action did not interfere with PCR testing, meaning accurate COVID-19 diagnosis remained possible.
In vivo results (real patients):
- 14 PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients received a single dose of the nasal spray.
- In those with culturable virus, viral titers (i.e., virus load) dropped by 65% at 5 minutes and 79% at 60 minutes after use.
- 5 out of 6 patients showed a clear reduction or cessation of viral shedding.
Why This Matters
This study is one of the first to bridge lab results with real-world application in a COVID-positive population. The implications are significant:
- Fast Acting: PVP-I acts in under a minute.
- Safe: No adverse effects were observed at the tested concentration.
- PCR-Compatible: Doesn't interfere with standard COVID testing.
- Practical Use: Could become a helpful public health tool, especially in high-risk settings such as hospitals, airports, and crowded events.
Bottom Line
The 0.5% povidone-iodine nasal spray shows real promise in lowering the amount of virus in the nasal passages—where COVID-19 typically begins. While more studies are needed to confirm the effects of repeated use over time, this spray could soon join masks and hand sanitizer as part of our everyday defense.
Read Full Study: In vivo and in vitro inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 with 0.5% Povidone-Iodine Nasal Spray – Full Study
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