Antidepressants with anti-inflammatory properties may be useful in long COVID depression

Abstract

Long COVID, which is characterised by the presence of persistent symptoms following a COVID infection, may also cause long COVID depression (LCD). Although the risk factors for LCD are not directly characterised, prior mental health visits were associated with an increased risk for long COVID, whereas antidepressant use was not. Current evidence suggests that pro-inflammatory factors in the brain are linked to LCD, thus anti-inflammatory agents may be useful in mitigating LCD. Limited evidence suggests that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may also be effective in the treatment of LCD.