Long COVID in 2025: Latest Research, Symptoms, and Treatment Advances
Latest Research Insights on Long COVID
Immune System Markers and Genetic Risk Factors
A recent clinical study led by Cardiff Metropolitan University and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board identified elevated levels of the immune protein Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in people suffering from Long COVID compared to those who fully recovered1. The study also found that individuals with a particular IL-6 receptor genotype, known as the ‘AA’ genotype, have an increased risk of developing Long COVID. These findings suggest IL-6 and its receptor could serve as biomarkers to predict risk and guide future treatments.
Large-Scale Data from Electronic Health Records (EHR)
The RECOVER initiative analyzed over 6 million EHRs and found that between 10% and 26% of adults and 4% of children who had COVID-19 developed Long COVID2. Risk factors include being an adolescent or elderly, female sex, and hospitalization during acute infection. The data also showed that Long COVID incidence rises with the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants, underscoring the ongoing public health challenge.
Common Symptoms of Long COVID in 2025
Long COVID symptoms vary widely and can affect multiple organ systems. Researchers have identified over 200 symptoms, but the most common and clinically relevant include34:
General: Fatigue, weakness, post-exertional malaise (worsening after activity), hair loss, pain, rash
Respiratory: Shortness of breath, chronic cough, chest pain
Cardiovascular: Chest tightness, heart palpitations, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
Neurological: Brain fog, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, headaches, dizziness, loss of smell or taste
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, heartburn
Muscle and Bone: Muscle pain and weakness
Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, insomnia, psychosis symptoms
Other: Kidney problems, sexual dysfunction, abnormal movements
These symptoms may be ongoing, intermittent, or fluctuate in severity, making diagnosis and management challenging.
Advances in Treatment Options
Monoclonal Antibody Therapy
A promising clinical trial underway at Nova Southeastern University is testing sipavibart, a long-acting monoclonal antibody originally approved for COVID-19 prevention, as a treatment for Long COVID5. Early observational studies suggest monoclonal antibodies may reduce or eliminate Long COVID symptoms in some patients, offering hope for a targeted therapy.
Repurposed and Emerging Therapies
Several non-antiviral treatments show potential based on recent clinical evidence6:
Metformin: Large phase 3 trials demonstrated a 42% to 63% reduction in Long COVID incidence when used early, making it a leading candidate for prevention.
Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN): Shows significant improvements in fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and pain.
Dexamethasone: Reduces fatigue and shortens symptom duration by about 33%.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Moderate benefits for mental health and musculoskeletal symptoms.
L-Arginine with Vitamin C: High rates of symptom relief, especially fatigue and shortness of breath.
Other treatments under investigation include therapeutic apheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and immunomodulators like anakinra (IL-1 receptor antagonist), fluvoxamine (SSRI with anti-inflammatory effects), and infliximab (TNF inhibitor).
Looking Ahead
The complexity of Long COVID, with its multi-system involvement and varied symptoms, requires continued research and a multi-pronged treatment approach. Biomarkers like IL-6 and genetic factors may soon help identify at-risk individuals early, enabling preventive strategies. Meanwhile, ongoing clinical trials and real-world data analyses are expanding the arsenal of therapeutic options, bringing hope to millions affected worldwide.
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent symptoms after COVID-19 infection, consult healthcare professionals for evaluation and management. Early recognition and tailored treatment can improve outcomes.
Sources:
1 Cardiff Metropolitan University Long COVID Study, May 2025
2 RECOVER Research Update, June 2025
3 Healthdirect Australia Long COVID Symptoms, Nov 2024
4 University of Washington Symptom Study, Oct 2023
5 AstraZeneca Sipavibart Clinical Trial, May 2025
6 PMC Review on Long COVID Treatments, Nov 2024
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