As the world eagerly awaits the end of the pandemic through massive vaccination efforts, many scientists are still working hard on finding non-vaccine solutions for COVID-19. Merck and Pfizer respectively developed the antivirals, Molnupiravir and Paxlovid — both of which show potential in curbing the seriousness of SARS-CoV2 infections. Now, there’s another breakthrough: an experimental gum for COVID-19 appears to reduce the viral load by up to 95%, potentially reducing not just the spread but also the severe symptoms.
Here’s what you need to know about the experimental gum for COVID-19.
Does a Pharmaceutical Company Manufacture the Gum?
First, please note that unlike Molnupiravir and Paxlovid, the experimental gum for COVID-19 is NOT manufactured by a pharmaceutical company. It is made by Per OS BioSciences, a company that specializes in manufacturing functional chewing gum, tablets, lozenges, and candies that provide faster absorption rates of the active ingredients.
A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania then studied the effect of the gum against SARS-CoV2 viral load.
How Does the Gum Reduce the Viral Load?
Reports say the gum has copies of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), a protein naturally found in cell surfaces. Experts say the SARS-CoV2 virus uses ACE 2 as a “gateway” to infect the cell.
In the test tube study, the researchers noticed that the virus in swab and saliva samples attached to the ACE 2 found in the chewing gum, significantly reducing the viral load by more than 95%.
In other words, the gum appears to “trap” the virus.
What’s the Possible Implication of Using the Experimental Gum for COVID-19?
Since the gum significantly reduced the viral load in the infected saliva and swab samples, then it might also help curb the spread of SARS-CoV2 when infected people breathe, talk, or cough.
If the gum gets approval from health authorities, it might help reduce the occurrence of surges especially in countries where vaccines are still not widely available.
Does the Gum Pose Any Adverse Effects?
The researchers indicated that the experimental gum for COVID-19 looks, feels, and tastes like conventional gum. Storage at normal temperature is possible for years without damaging the ACE 2 protein molecules in the cell surfaces.
What Other Products Against COVID-19 Are in Development?
Prior to the experimental gum for COVID-19, other companies have also released products that might help fight the pandemic. They are as follows:
- Molnupiravir by Merck, which the UK government already approved, and is currently being studied by our FDA.
- Paxlovid by Pfizer, which studies say is 89% effective against SARS-CoV2.
- Oral COVID-19 vaccine (Oravax) from Israel, which the South Africa now approved to undergo Phase 1 clinical trial.
- Nasal sprays that claim to stop the infection or reduce the amount of viruses.
- Virgin Coconut oil, which can be used as an adjunct therapy for COVID-19.
Besides these, some studies also show that certain mouthwash products and medicines can also fight SARS-CoV2 infections.
Please note that despite these products’ potential, they are still no substitutes for vaccination. Following the health and safety protocols is still crucial. If the vaccine becomes available to you, take it. If you have concerns, get in touch with your doctor.
An experimental gum for COVID-19 prepared by Per Os BioSciences and studied by researchers from University of Pennsylvania appears to “trap” viruses in the saliva and swab samples of infected people. This reduced the viral load by more than 95%.
If approved, the gum might be able to reduce the spread of the virus when infected people breathe, talk, or cough. It might also help ease the surge of cases, particularly in countries where vaccines are still not widely available.
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