New study shows nasal spray linked to lower COVID-19 ICU admissions

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A new study suggests that people prescribed steroid nasal sprays used to ward off allergies are less likely to be hospitalized for or die from COVID-19.

Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic followed over 72,000 COVID-19 patients between March 2020 and April 2021 — 10,187 were all currently prescribed intranasal steroids.

Scientists found patients using the nasal spray were 22% less likely to be hospitalized, 23% less likely to be admitted to the ICU and 24% less likely to die of infection compared to patients not on intranasal steroids.  

“This study shows the importance of the nose in COVID-19 infection. The nose, in this instance, is the gateway to our bodies, allowing the virus to enter and replicate within. The use of intranasal steroids may help disrupt this gateway,” lead author, Dr. Joe Zein, said in a news release.

However, researchers also say the study does not suggest nasal steroids are a way to prevent or treat the coronavirus. They do not recommend people not currently taking the prescribed medication to take it.