Exploring Dermatological Complications of Drugs Used in Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Treatment: A Mini Review

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to governments and populations worldwide, triggering a global health crisis within months. In response, international health research organizations have highlighted various effects of chemical therapies, including dermatological complications. This mini-review explores the dermatological effects of drugs used in the treatment of COVID-19. This study examines the skin manifestations resulting from standard chemical treatments administered during the COVID-19 pandemic. Keywords were cross-referenced across multiple databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, SID, Magiran, and Google Scholar. Search terms included COVID-19, coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, chemical effects, neurological effects, and pandemic-related cardiac complications. The review encompasses a range of pharmaceuticals used in the treatment of COVID-19, such as hydroxychloroquine, remdesivir, azithromycin, dexamethasone, ribavirin/interferon, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), oseltamivir, losartan, magnesium sulfate, and vitamin D3. Our investigation identifies various cutaneous manifestations, including rash, erythema, and ulceration. Additionally, early-onset nocturnal symptoms, somnolence, dyspnea, edema, arrhythmias, scleroderma, and other adverse effects are associated with the standard pharmacotherapy used to manage COVID-19.

Keywords: Pandemic, Coronavirus, COVID-19, Medication, Skin