Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) Activity, Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Levels and Clinical Outcomes in Post-COVID-19 Patients

This clinical trial investigates the potential therapeutic benefits of vitamin D supplementation in individuals experiencing persistent health issues following recovery from severe COVID-19, commonly referred to as post-COVID-19 condition or long-COVID. The study primarily focuses on the neuropsychiatric symptoms such as anxiety and depression and the antioxidant enzyme activity, specifically glutathione peroxidase (GPx), which plays a critical role in mitigating oxidative stress within the body.

The trial is designed as a pilot, randomized controlled trial, where participants are divided into two groups to receive vitamin D in different dosing regimens: a daily dose and a bolus dose, administered weekly. This method allows for an examination of the efficacy of dosage frequency on achieving optimal serum vitamin D levels, which are hypothesized to influence the biochemical pathways involved in inflammatory and oxidative processes.

During the study, participants' serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), a marker for vitamin D status, are assessed to ensure they reach and maintain a target level that previous studies have associated with optimal immune function and reduced inflammation. The participants' initial vitamin D status is carefully evaluated to tailor the supplementation dose according to individual needs, following a formula that considers their weight and the desired increase in 25(OH)D levels.

The antioxidant capacity of participants is measured through the activity of GPx in the blood. This enzyme is crucial for reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases and has been suggested to play a significant role in the severity and progression of post-COVID-19 symptoms. By measuring GPx activity before and after vitamin D supplementation, the study aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of vitamin D in enhancing antioxidant defenses in post-COVID patients.

Furthermore, the trial includes an evaluation of lung function using high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and standard pulmonary function tests, including spirometry and the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO). These assessments help to determine any improvements in respiratory health, which is often compromised in patients with long-term COVID-19 effects.

The impact of vitamin D on neuropsychiatric symptoms is assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), a validated tool that rates the severity of anxiety and depression symptoms. This aspect of the study highlights the potential of vitamin D not just as a physical health supplement but also as a modulator of mental health, particularly in the context of the ongoing recovery from a severe infectious disease.

By conducting this trial, the researchers aim to shed light on the broader implications of vitamin D supplementation, not only as a means of improving vitamin D status but also as a potentially significant intervention for improving the quality of life and health outcomes in individuals suffering from long-term effects of COVID-19.

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosis of Post-COVID-19 Condition: Patients must have been previously diagnosed with COVID-19 and continue to experience persistent symptoms after recovery.
• Age: Participants must be adults aged 18 years or older.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Initial serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels below 40 ng/mL.
• Completed Hospital Treatment for COVID-19: Patients must have been discharged from hospital treatment for COVID-19 at least 12 months prior to the study.
• Ability to Give Informed Consent: Participants must be capable of understanding and willing to sign a consent form.
• Ability to Perform Required Tests: Participants must be physically able to undergo spirometry and other functional tests as required by the study protocol.

Exclusion criteria

• Reading and Writing Difficulties: Patients who have difficulties in reading and/or writing that would impede their understanding of the study requirements or communication with study staff.
• Inability to Perform Physical Tests: Patients unable to perform functional walk and spirometry tests.
• Untreated Chronic Non-Respiratory Diseases: Individuals suffering from untreated chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension, hypothyroidism, or epilepsy that could interfere with the study outcomes.
• Recent Use of Vitamin D Supplements: Patients who have taken vitamin D supplements within three months prior to the start of the study.
• Participation in Other Clinical Trials: Patients currently participating in other clinical trials that might conflict with this study's protocol.
• Pregnancy: Due to potential risks and lack of data on high-dose vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy, pregnant women will be excluded.