Opinion editor’s note: Editorials represent the opinions of the Star Tribune Editorial Board, which operates independently from the newsroom.
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Those unlucky enough to contract COVID this winter can make the best of a bad break by aiding medical researchers who are evaluating additional treatments to help those who are ill feel better faster.
An ongoing medical research trial with enrollment available through the University of Minnesota is still seeking participants who are newly ill with COVID to test a drug called metformin. It’s a widely available medication — one with strong safety and tolerability profiles — best known as a diabetes treatment. It’s known to fight inflammation and boost the immune system. A 2020 study published in the prestigious Nature journal found that it inhibited the COVID virus in a test tube.
The research trial, known as ACTIV-6, will help determine if metformin could be taken at home by people with mild to moderate COVID soon after infection to swiftly improve symptoms. A few antiviral medications, such as Paxlovid, are available now to prevent severe disease, but it is important to expand treatment options. The medical arsenal against this virus should have multiple weapons, not just one or two.
The study makes it remarkably convenient to participate. It’s open to those living in Minnesota as well as those residing outside state borders. It’s an “at-home trial,” meaning there’s no need to travel to see a doctor.
Eligibility screening and survey questions answered throughout the study period can be done through an online questionnaire or by phone. The medication is delivered to the enrollee’s home at no cost. Participants can leave the study at any point if they no longer wish to continue.
“We know that people are feeling ill. This trial in particular is designed to be as easy as possible for people,” said Dr. Carolyn Bramante, an assistant professor at the U’s Medical School and a principal investigator for the study.
