NCT05886816 · University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Mitoquinone/Mitoquinol Mesylate as Oral and Safe Postexposure Prophylaxis for Covid-19
What this study is about
Adults who do not have major health, kidney, gastrointestinal disease will be randomly assigned to receive taken by mouth mitoquinone/mitoquinol mesylate (Mito-MES) versus placebo to prevent the development and progression of COVID-19 after high-risk exposure to a person with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
View original scientific description
Adults who do not have major health, kidney, gastrointestinal disease will be randomized to receive oral mitoquinone/mitoquinol mesylate (Mito-MES) versus placebo to prevent the development and progression of COVID-19 after high-risk exposure to a person with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Interventions
DRUG
Mitoquinone/mitoquinol mesylate
Mitochondrial antioxidant
OTHER
Placebo
Placebo pills
Primary outcome measures
SARS-CoV-2 infection
Time frame: Within 14 days after exposure to SARS-CoV-2
Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection based on a diagnostic test
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18-65 years old Asymptomatic (no symptoms of viral infection) on study entry High risk exposure without use of masks to confirmed case of COVID-19 Members in a household one of which is a confirmed case of COVID-19 Negative baseline SARS-COV-2 diagnostic test
Exclusion criteria
- Women with variations in physiological functions due to hormones that may effect immune function and (transgender, pregnant, breastfeeding)
- Specific significant clinical diseases \[cardiovascular disease (such as coronary artery/vascular disease), heart disease (such as congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation), lung disease (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis, pleural effusions), kidney disease (glomerular filtration rate or GFR less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2), liver disease (such as cirrhosis, hepatitis), major immunosuppression (such as history of transplantation, uncontrolled HIV infection, cancer on active chemotherapy\] based on history. Participants with well controlled HIV (CD4 count \> 500 cells/mm\^3 and HIV viral load \< 50 copies/ml) and people with remote history of cancer not on active treatment will be allowed to participate.
- History of known gastrointestinal disease (such as gastroparesis) that may predispose patients to nausea
- History of auto-immune diseases
- Chronic viral hepatitis
- Use of systemic immunomodulatory medications (e.g. steroids) within 4 weeks of enrollment
- Any participant who has received any investigational drug within 30 days of dosing
- History of underlying cardiac arrhythmia
- History of severe recent cardiac or pulmonary event
- A history of a hypersensitivity reaction to any components of the study drug or structurally similar compounds including Coenzyme Q10 and idebenone
- Unable to swallow tablets
- Use of any investigational products within 4 weeks of enrollment
- Any other clinical condition or prior therapy that, in the opinion of the investigator, would make the patient unsuitable for the study or unable to comply with the study requirements.
- Eligible for other FDA approved treatment for post-exposure prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2
- Use of Coenzyme Q10 or Vitamin E \< 120 days from enrollment
Where
- Dallas, Texas
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations