Stacey Alexander

Recent topline results from a Phase 2 clinical trial suggest that bezisterim, an investigational drug, may help improve fatigue, post-exertional malaise (PEM), and cognitive impairment in people with Long COVID who have greater baseline burden of these symptoms. BioVie had a press release with topline results from its ADDRESS-LC trial, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 203 participants with Long COVID. Researchers evaluated bezisterim, an oral medication believed to reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity, against placebo. While the study did not find statistically significant improvements across the overall study population, 21 of 22 clinical endpoints numerically favored bezisterim. More promising results emerged in pre-specified subgroups of participants with higher baseline symptom severity. Participants with more severe fatigue showed statistically significant improvements across five clinical measures, including three fatigue-specific endpoints. Those with high baseline PEM experienced improvements in PEM, fatigue, and objective cognitive function, while participants with substantial objective cognitive impairment showed statistically significant improvements across four objective cognitive measures. Bezisterim was also generally well tolerated, with a safety profile similar to placebo. Adverse events were reported in 41.6% of participants receiving bezisterim compared with 55.9% receiving placebo. These findings are encouraging, however, the subgroup results remain exploratory and require confirmation in larger trials. BioVie has announced plans to advance bezisterim into a Phase 3 trial to further evaluate its effectiveness and identify which patients may benefit most. Read the full announcement: BioVie Phase 2 ADDRESS-LC Trial, September 15, 2026. investors.bioviepharma.com/n…

Managing post-exertional malaise (PEM) goes beyond pacing alone. In this clip, Dr. David Putrino, Dr. Lucinda Bateman, and Dr. Jennifer Curtin share emerging approaches to reducing physical and cognitive PEM, including treatments targeting metabolic dysfunction and options such as low-dose rapamycin, metformin, oxaloacetate, CoQ10, dextromethorphan, low-dose naltrexone (LDN), NAD+, high-dose B1, and IV saline.  While some patients report improvements, responses vary, and research is still evolving. Identifying which treatments may help specific patients remains an important part of developing more personalized PEM management strategies. Have you found any medications or supplements that help manage your PEM? Share in the comments. Watch the full How to Manage and Treat Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM) webinar featuring Dr. Putrino, Dr. Bateman, Dr. Curtin, and moderator Charlie McCone. Watch the full webinar here:  na2.hubs.ly/H08vRL-0 Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, over-the-counter medication, or treatment. Individual risks, potential interactions, and appropriate dosing should be discussed with and monitored by your clinician.