Inhibitory Effect of Ophthalmic Solutions against SARS-CoV-2: A Preventive Action to Block the Viral Transmission?

Abstract

In 2020, a global pandemic was declared following the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the pathogen responsible for COVID-19. The risk of infection is high due to the ease of transmission, which can occur orally, through droplets, or via contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. It has also been demonstrated that the ocular surface can constitute a transmission route, especially in hospital settings, where health care workers can become a dangerous source of infection. In order to increase prevention and reduce the spread of the virus on the ocular surface, the antiviral activity of already-marketed eye drops against SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated. Iodim, Ozodrop, Septavis, and Dropsept were tested against SARS-CoV-2 in plaque-assay experiments at different stimulation times. Furthermore, the expression levels of early and late genes were evaluated through molecular assays. Results indicated that three of the four ophthalmic solutions showed a considerable dose-dependent inhibition of viral replication, highlighting their use as potential antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2 and preventing other ocular infections.

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose-Based Nasal Sprays Effectively Inhibit In Vitro SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Spread

“…This is in agreement with studies on carrageenan-based nasal sprays that suggest these products exert their antiviral properties by inhibiting virus interactions at the cell surface [14,21]. Similarly, over-the-counter eyedrops have also been shown to act externally to genome replication [22], highlighting the more general mechanisms by which many of these nonpharmaceutical products act.…”

Virucidal Effect of the Mesoscopic Structure of CAC-717 on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2

“…Given that the calcium bicarbonate component of CAC-717, which is derived from plant minerals, is non-flammable, it could be used in a variety of applications for which ethanol is not suitable. Recently, the virucidal effect of commercial ophthalmic solutions was indicated and propose the potential use of preventing ocular infection [16]. CAC-717 is not approved as a medical drug, however, it is less irritating, and may also be a potential disinfecting agent.…”

SARS-CoV-2 in Conjunctiva and Tears and Ocular Symptoms of Patients with COVID-19

“…Considering that the ocular surface is directly exposed to droplets and contaminated objects, it must be regarded as a possible route of transmission, and preventive measures should be taken in this direction [ 29 ]. Commercial ocular antiseptics may have a role in preventing ocular symptoms during COVID-19 infection, as they have shown to inhibit in vitro viral replication [ 30 ]. Eye care providers, in particular, must be aware of ocular transmission and follow strict disinfection protocols.…”