China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences

Meta-Analysis Confirms Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Si-Shen-Wan for Treating IBS-D

2 days ago

• A comprehensive meta-analysis of 34 randomized controlled trials involving 2,976 participants has validated the efficacy of Si-Shen-Wan (SSW) in treating diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome. • The traditional Chinese medicine formula demonstrated significant improvements in multiple symptom scores including abdominal pain, diarrhea, abdominal distension, and loss of appetite in IBS-D patients. • Researchers from leading Chinese medical institutions employed trial sequential analysis to ensure robust findings, potentially offering a valuable alternative treatment for this common functional gastrointestinal disorder.

Significant Placebo Response Observed in Herbal IBS Clinical Trials

6 months ago

• A meta-analysis of 24 studies reveals a 37% placebo response rate in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients treated with herbal placebos. • Abdominal pain improvement was noted in 29% of IBS patients receiving herbal placebos, while stool improvement was observed in 46%. • Research location and treatment duration significantly influenced the placebo response, highlighting heterogeneity in IBS clinical trials. • The inclusion of low-dose herbal ingredients in placebos did not amplify the therapeutic effect, suggesting other factors drive the response.

China's ePRO Platform Monitors COVID-19 Symptoms, Adapts to Emerging Variants

7 months ago

• An electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) platform was developed in China to monitor COVID-19 symptoms, leveraging an existing system for lung cancer surgery patients. • The ePRO-CoV-SM platform was adapted to accommodate the evolving symptom profiles of different SARS-CoV-2 variants, including BA.2.2 and Omicron BA.5.2. • The platform utilizes a WeChat mini program for patient self-reporting and integrates with data management systems for efficient symptom monitoring and physician alerts. • Validation studies demonstrated the feasibility and adaptability of the ePRO platform in real-world settings, enhancing symptom monitoring during centralized isolation.