Smell Training for Loss of Smell After COVID-19
(OTTODC19 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines smell training as a method to assist individuals who lost their sense of smell after COVID-19. Participants will smell different scents twice daily for 12 weeks to determine if it improves their ability to smell. Two groups will participate: one will use scents like rose and eucalyptus, while the other will use scents like coffee and lemon. This trial may suit someone who had COVID-19, continues to have difficulty smelling, and understands French. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could help others regain their sense of smell.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this olfactory training is safe for treating loss of smell after COVID-19?
Research has shown that smell training is a safe method for people who have lost their sense of smell after COVID-19. Studies have found that participants generally handle this approach easily, with no serious side effects reported. The training involves sniffing specific scents, such as rose or coffee, for a short time each day.
In one study, participants who engaged in smell training noticed improvements in their sense of smell without significant negative effects. The process is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't involve surgery or medication, making it a low-risk option for those seeking to regain their sense of smell after COVID-19.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about smell training for loss of smell after COVID-19 because it offers a non-invasive, natural approach that could potentially help the brain relearn how to recognize odors. Unlike current treatments that may include medications or simply waiting for the sense of smell to return on its own, this method actively engages patients in regular sensory exercises. By using specific scents like eucalyptol or coffee aroma, the training aims to stimulate different olfactory pathways, potentially speeding up recovery. This approach is unique because it leverages the brain's plasticity, offering a hands-on solution that empowers patients to take an active role in their healing process.
What evidence suggests that this trial's smell training treatments could be effective for loss of smell after COVID-19?
Research shows that smell training can help people regain their sense of smell after losing it due to COVID-19. In this trial, participants will join one of two chemosensory training groups. One group will use scents such as eucalyptol, phenyl ethanol, orange, and eugenol, while the other will use coffee aroma, cheese aroma, strawberries, and limon. One study found that using different scents during training can speed up recovery. Another study discovered that combining smell training with visual cues helped people regain their sense of smell. However, traditional smell training alone might not work for everyone with COVID-19-related smell loss, as noted in one study. Overall, smell training might help, but results can vary.25678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Johannes A Frasnelli, PhD
Principal Investigator
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who had COVID-19 and are now experiencing persistent smell disorders. Participants must be able to give informed consent, understand French, and have internet access with an email.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Initial Meeting
Participants undergo initial olfactory evaluation and receive training instructions
Treatment
Participants perform olfactory training with assigned scents for 12 weeks
Final Meeting
Participants undergo final olfactory evaluation after 12 weeks of treatment
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in olfactory function post-treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Smell training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
Lead Sponsor