Journal of Pharmacy Practice (JPP)In It for the Long Haul: Post-Acute Sequelae of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2

Pharmacists: Frontline Warriors in the Battle Against Long COVID

As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, a new challenge has emerged: Long COVID. This condition, characterized by lingering symptoms weeks to months after initial infection, is becoming a significant concern for healthcare professionals and patients alike. The role of pharmacists in managing this condition is crucial and multifaceted, ranging from symptom management to patient education and advocacy.

Key Points

• Long COVID, also known as “Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID19,” “Post-COVID-19 Syndrome,” or “Long Haul COVID,” refers to symptoms that persist for more than 4 weeks after the initial infection.
• Common symptoms include fatigue, cough, “brain fog,” and shortness of breath, but can span multiple organ systems.
• Pharmacists play a key role in managing long COVID, from screening patients and optimizing medication regimens to providing education and guidance on vaccines.
• The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has committed to investing $1.15 billion over the next 4 years to better understand prevention and treatment of long COVID.

According to a study published in The Lancet, approximately 10% of people who have had COVID-19 experience prolonged symptoms, commonly referred to as long COVID.

More on Long COVID