The potential role of inhaled nitric oxide for postexposure chemoprophylaxis of COVID-19

Background: Several vaccines have been fast-tracked in an attempt to decrease the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19. However, post-exposure prophylaxis has been overlooked in battling COVID-19. Main text: Inhaled nitric oxide is a potential tool in post-exposure prophylaxis of COVID-19. It decreases cytosolic calcium levels, which impairs the action of Furin. SARS-CoV-2 uses Furin to replicate in the respiratory tract. Short conclusion: Inhaled nitric oxide could decrease the viral load in the upper respiratory tract, abort clinically symptomatic infection, and prevent subsequent complications. Nitric oxide might be a tool for post-exposure chemoprophylaxis in at-risk groups, especially medical personnel.