Date on Honors Thesis

Spring 5-6-2022

Major

Chemistry Pre-Pharmacy

Minor

Cellular Biology

Examining Committee Member

Dr. Kevin Revell, Thesis Advisor

Examining Committee Member

Dr. Sterling Wright, Committee Member

Examining Committee Member

Dr. Chris Trzepacz, Committee Member

Abstract/Description

For the past few years, the COVID-19 pandemic has been the focal point in healthcare and research. This disease has permanently changed daily life and left a historic impact on the world. Most people have felt the effects of this pandemic either directly, via infection, or indirectly, via change in workflow, financial impact, etc. The main question for this virus still remains today; how do we treat this illness effectively? While many ideas are being tested and suggested, a definite answer has yet to be procured. Vaccine rates are climbing on a daily basis, serving as the first and most beneficial form of prevention when it comes to spread and severity of infection. However, as new variants continue to mutate into existence, we are left wondering how long this virus will be an active threat. For this purpose, nebulizer medications may serve as an effective and long-term option to treat positive patients both in healthcare settings and at home. The main medications of ipratropium bromide and albuterol sulfate and their premixed combination have shown benefit in patients with other respiratory conditions such as COPD and asthma. Given the correlation of symptoms between many of these diseases and COVID-19, there stands plausible support for the use of these medications for treatment of a viral SARS-CoV-2 infection. If these medications could sucessfully treat COVID symptoms, then perhaps these medications hold stake as a possible option. This would help to ease the strain on the healthcare system and bring peace of mind to those with growing concerns for their health and safety.

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