Give a short and critical explanation of the rationale of using fluvoxamine (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) in the treatment of Covid patients. Your answer must be properly and appropriately referenced (in-text references as well).

Fluvoxamine is a SSRI( selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression, OCD and other conditions. However, the FDA did not approve it's use for infections such as COVID-19. (NIH,2021)

Studies that have been carried out shows that Fluvoxamine has a high affinity for the Sigma1 receptors of immune cells. This results in a decrease the production of inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory genes(NIH,2021) According to The Medical letter (Medical Letter, 2021 : 63) Sigma1 agonism inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication. Theoretically Fluvoxamine prevents the development of a life threatening cytokine storm and acute respiratory distress syndrome in a COVID-19 infection.

Reference list:

• NIH (National institute of health). 2021. https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/therapies/immunomodulators/fluvoxamine/

• Medical letter. 2021.https://secure.medicalletter.org/sites/default/files/freedocs/w1623d.pdf