Abstract

REVIEW ON COVID-19: ETIOLOGY PATHOPHYSIOLOGY MEDICATION AND SELF MEDICATION

Vishal Prakash Nalamwar* and Satish Bhaskar Kosalge

ABSTRACT

This review article provide relevant collective information on research about Corona viruses, etiology of COVID-19, proposed mechanism by which corona virus infect host cell, pathophysiology, symptoms and treatment options in allopathy for management of COVID-19 symptoms. It explains in brief how concepts in Ayurveda and Homeopathy are applicable for diagnosis and management of COVID-19. Explanation about Homeopathic and Ayurvedic medicines that finds scope in the treatment of COVID-19 is also given. It highlights reasons for Self-medication practices during COVID-19 and explains benefits and risks associated with self-medication in COVID-19. In the absence of specific allopathic antiviral drug, immunomodulatory ayurvedic drugs such as Withania somnifera L., Tinospora cordifolia W., Phyllanthus emblica L., Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Asparagus racemosus W., Ocimum sanctum L., Boerrhaavia diffusa L., Piper longum L. and Homeopathy drugs Gelsemium sempervirens, Bryonia alba, Arsenicum album need to be utilized as preventive and supportive medication. Self-medication with low priced and readily available drugs Chloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine, Azithromycin, Ivermectin and Dexamethasone need to be strictly avoided. Public education is essential for effective and safe practice of self-medication with home remedies, herbal remedies and OTC medicines as preventive tool in COVID-19.

Keywords: COVID-19, Allopathy, Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Self-medication.