IngentaConnect Meta-analysis: phytotherapy of functional dyspepsia with the herb...

Authors: Melzer, J.¹; Rösch, W.²; Reichling, J.²; Brignoli, R.³; Saller, R.¹

Source: Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Volume 20, Numbers 11-12, December 2004 , pp. 1279-1287(9)

Abstract:

Summary Background

: Despite a long-standing use of herbal drugs with dyspeptic symptoms, little attention has been paid to their clinical evaluation. Aim

: To assess efficacy and safety of the herbal drug preparation STW 5 (containing, e.g. Iberis, peppermint, chamomile) in the treatment of functional dyspepsia. Methods

: Research in electronic databases, consultation of experts and of the producer identified STW 5 (Iberogast) as descriptor in six randomized-controlled trials. The raw data of three placebo-controlled studies which met the selection criteria, were reanalysed and pooled for meta-analysis; one reference-controlled study supported the safety analysis (STW 5: n = 199, control: n = 198). Results

: Pooled data showed verum (n = 138) to be more effective than placebo (n = 135) with regard to the severity of the most bothersome gastrointestinal symptom (P-value: 0.001, odds ratio: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.11-0.47). A fourth randomized-controlled trial showed no significant difference between STW 5 and cisapride. As to safety, adverse events were similar with verum and placebo; no serious adverse events occurred. Discussions

: From the point of view of efficacy and safety, the herbal medicinal product STW 5 appears to be a valid therapeutic option for patients seeking phytotherapy for their symptoms of functional dyspepsia.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2004.02275.x

Affiliations: 1: Department of Internal Medicine, Complementary Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland 2: Medical Clinic, Hospital Nordwest, Frankfurt on Main, Germany 3: Tradyser GmbH, Rüschlikon, Switzerland

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Meta-analysis: phytotherapy of functional dyspepsia with the herbal drug preparation STW 5 (Iberogast)