Esp Logo
Request Appointment

Long COVID Fatigue Treatment: New Research Explained

Apr 17, 2026

Can Fluvoxamine Help Long COVID Fatigue? What The Latest Research Shows

An estimated 65 million people worldwide continue to live with Long COVID, where persistent fatigue remains one of the most debilitating symptoms.

What is Long COVID fatigue?

Long COVID refers to the persistent often debilitating tiredness that continues or develops weeks after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection. Long COVID fatigue goes beyond normal tiredness. It can impact:

  • Daily functioning
  • Cognitive performance (“brain fog”)
  • Overall mental health and wellbeing

 

New Research: Fluvoxamine and Long COVID

A recent randomised, placebo-controlled trial (REVIVE-TOGETHER trial) published in the Annals of Internal Medicine explored whether Fluvoxamine, a commonly prescribed SSRI, could help. The study followed 399 adults experiencing fatigue for at least 90 days after COVID-19 infection.

 

Key Findings

The trial delivered encouraging results for Fluvoxamine:

  • Fluvoxamine significantly reduced fatigue compared to placebo on the Fatigue Severity Scale, which had a mean reduction of 0.43 points at 60 days (with a 99% probability that the drug outperformed placebo) that further improved to 0.58 points by 90 days.
  • Patients reported meaningful improvements in quality of life.
  • In contrast, Metformin showed no benefits once Long COVID was established.

While the findings are promising, experts emphasise that further research is needed, particularly across broader patient groups and symptoms beyond fatigue.

 

What This Means for Patients

For individuals experiencing persistent fatigue, this research opens new conversations around potential treatment approaches using existing medications.

At Eastern Suburbs Psychiatry, we support patients across Sydney experiencing:

  • Long COVID-related fatigue
  • Brain fog and cognitive
  • Mental health impacts of chronic illness

 

Seeking Help for Long COVID In Sydney

If you are experiencing ongoing fatigue after COVID-19, speaking with a psychiatrist in Sydney may help you explore appropriate treatment options.

 

This article is for informational purposes only and summarises recent research. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Fluvoxamine is a prescription medication, any treatment decisions should be made in consultation with your doctor or psychiatrist, who can assess suitability based on your individual health needs.

Learn more about our psychiatry services or book an appointment today.

 

Source:

Discuss Your Symptoms