Effect of High-Dose Zinc and Ascorbic Acid Supplementation vs Usual Care on Symptom Length and Reduction Among Ambulatory Patients With SARS-CoV-2 Infection: The COVID A to Z Randomized Clinical Trial
Thomas S, Patel D, Bittel B, Wolski K, Wang Q, Kumar A, Nissen SE, Desai MY
Published in JAMA Network Open
Methodology
Multicentre open-label 2x2 factorial randomised trial of 10 days zinc gluconate 50 mg, ascorbic acid 8000 mg, both, or standard of care in outpatients with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2
Key Findings
The trial was stopped early for low conditional power. There was no significant difference between groups in days to 50 percent symptom reduction; usual care reached the endpoint at a mean 6.7 days, with no improvement from zinc.
Conclusions
High-dose zinc gluconate did not shorten symptom duration compared with usual care in ambulatory SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Limitations
Open-label design, no placebo, stopped early for futility, single health system, viral illness other than the common cold.
Supplements Studied
The study was stopped for a low conditional power for benefit with no significant difference among the 4 groups for the primary end point.
Outcomes Measured
The study was stopped for a low conditional power for benefit with no significant difference among the 4 groups for the primary end point.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Cleveland Clinic institutional funding
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.