Strategic Integration of Melatonin to Enhance Corticosteroid Therapy in
Long COVID-19 Cardiovascular Care: A Lifesaving Opportunity
Abstract
We applaud Kakad et al. for their convincing analysis of melatonin’s
potential as a treatment for long-term COVID-19 (LC19), emphasizing its
pleiotropic effects. Due to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation,
LC19 has caused millions of people to suffer from cardiovascular
problems such myocarditis and thrombosis. Even while corticosteroids are
still a mainstay of treatment, long-term usage of them can have serious
adverse effects, such as disruption of metabolism and disturbed sleep.
In this letter, we present a novel chronotherapeutic strategy that
combines evening melatonin supplementation with morning corticosteroid
delivery that is timed to coincide with natural cortisol peaks. This
approach seeks to minimize side effects brought on by corticosteroids
while maximizing the anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective benefits of
both drugs. The cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant
qualities of melatonin enhance corticosteroid treatment, potentially
lowering dosages and improving patient results. In order to continue
this strategy through coordinated, multi-center trials and guarantee
thorough assessment and application of this potential therapeutic
paradigm, we also support the creation of a Global LC19 Chronotherapy
Consortium.