The APOLLO Vitamin A Trial
The APOLLO trial is a new project which looks at whether Vitamin A could help people regain their sense of smell after viral infections including Covid-19.
Smell loss is a common symptom of Covid-19, but even before COVID, many viruses had been causing smell loss and distortion and while most people naturally regain their sense of smell within a couple of weeks, many have been left with on-going smell disorders.
Previous research from Germany has shown the potential benefit of Vitamin-A, and the UEA team will explore how this treatment works to help repair tissues in the nose damaged by viruses.
They hope that the study, which has been funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), could one-day help improve the lives of millions around the world who suffer from smell loss, by returning their fifth sense.  To read more click here
Vitamin A as a treatment for post viral smell disorders has yet to have its place in the treatment of smell disorders confirmed. The aim of the APOLLO trial is to provide proof of concept so that any outcomes that result in treatment options are properly and safely advised. Vitamin A nasal drops are not currently licensed for prescribing in the UK but we are aware that they can be purchased online from various websites. We do not advocate their use without the scientific evidence from the APOLLO trial but we acknowledge that some people are really struggling to live with their smell disorder and are actively seeking access to products that might help. At this time, Vitamin A should only be used on the advice of a specialist in a dedicated smell and taste clinic until such time that the study is complete. Â