Chlorpheniramine Maleate Displaying Multiple Modes of Antiviral Action Against SARS-CoV-2: An Initial Mechanistic Study

Background Chlorpheniramine maleate (CPM) has been identified as a potential antiviral compound against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Materials and methods The antiviral activity of CPM against SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated in vitro using Vero E6 cells. Cytotoxicity and antiviral assays assessed effects on viral adsorption, replication, and virucidal activity. Molecular docking was conducted to explore interactions with viral proteins and the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. Results Our findings demonstrate that CPM exhibits antiviral properties by interfering with viral adsorption and replication, as well as directly inactivating the virus. Molecular docking analysis revealed interactions between CPM and essential viral proteins, such as the main protease receptor, spike protein receptor, and RNA polymerase. CPM's interactions were primarily hydrophobic in nature, with an additional hydrogen bond formation in the RNA polymerase active site. Conclusions These results suggest that CPM has the potential to serve as a multitarget antiviral agent against SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other respiratory viruses. Further investigations are warranted to explore its clinical implications and assess its efficacy in vivo.