Could a simple protein help kids fight COVID-19?

NCT ID NCT05855330

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether giving arginine (a natural protein) by IV can improve how cells produce energy in children hospitalized with COVID-19. About 21 kids aged 3 to 21 will receive one of three doses three times a day for up to five days. Researchers will measure changes in mitochondrial function and amino acid levels to see if arginine helps recovery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

arginine (a protein given by IV infusion)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, safe treatment to help children recover faster from COVID-19 by boosting energy in their cells.

What could go wrong

This is a very small early-phase pilot study with only 21 children, so results may not be conclusive. Arginine can cause side effects like flushing, nausea, or headache.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for COVID-19 are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

COVID-19

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA), Arthur M. Blank

    RECRUITING

    Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••