Emerging research suggests that vitamin D deficiency may influence the risk and recovery from Long COVID. A comprehensive review conducted by researchers at Assiut University in Egypt analyzed multiple clinical studies, shedding light on the therapeutic potential of vitamin D and its possible interplay with metformin, a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes.*

Vitamin D’s Role in Long COVID

The clinical review, published in Inflammopharmacology, examined 58 studies and found that 86% of them demonstrated a link between higher vitamin D levels and reduced severity of COVID-19 symptoms. 

Importantly, four observational studies identified in the review suggested that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of Long COVID. Previous evidence supports this, showing that Long COVID patients often have lower vitamin D levels compared to those who recover fully.

Vitamin D is known to support the immune system and respiratory health, and its potential role in preventing Long COVID is gaining interest. 

Researchers suggest that supplementation may also be a cost-effective intervention to improve recovery outcomes. Further clinical trials are needed, however, to establish optimal dosing and treatment guidelines.

Metformin as a Complementary Treatment

In addition to vitamin D, metformin has emerged as a potential treatment for Long COVID. A phase 3 clinical trial found that:

• Early treatment with metformin reduced the risk of developing Long COVID by 41.3% over a 10-month period. 

Researchers propose that:

• Metformin’s effect on the vitamin D receptor could enhance the body’s ability to utilize vitamin D, providing greater protection against persistent symptoms. 

Combining vitamin D with metformin for a multiple-target approach, suggest the authors, may help both prevent and manage Long COVID.

Looking Ahead

While the study findings are promising, the researchers emphasize the need for randomized controlled trials to confirm the efficacy of vitamin D and metformin as a combined treatment for Long COVID. They recommend further investigation into the appropriate dosages and timing of supplementation to maximize benefits.

In the meantime, they say, optimizing adequate vitamin D intake through sun exposure and/or supplementation remains a practical step for people concerned about or struggling with Long COVID. 

*Cheng, K. and Sanders, L. (2024, April 29). Long COVID treatment: Does your vitamin D level play a role? Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/long-covid-treatment-does-your-vitamin-d-level-play-a-role

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