In a nutshell
This study investigated if the Chinese herbal formula Guizhi Fuling capsule (GZFL) improves the outcomes of women with endometriosis (EDM) in combination with mifepristone (Mifeprex).
They found that GF may improve EDM and pregnancy outcomes.
Some background
Endometriosis (EDM) is caused by tissue growing outside the womb. This tissue is called endometrium. EDM has many symptoms. Pain and infertility two of the most severe symptoms. Patients can undergo surgery to remove the excess tissue. Mifepristone (MFP) is a drug used to treat EDM. A low dose of MFP can slow tissue growth. This improves pain and other symptoms.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is often used in conjunction with Western medicine. Guizhi Fuling capsule (GZFL) is a combination of a number of herbal compounds. GZFL may improve blood pooling. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects. Some studies suggest that GZFL may improve EDM symptoms. The effect of GZFL on pregnancy outcomes s unclear. It is unclear if GZFL is effective in combination with MFP in patients with EDM.
Methods & findings
This study analyzed data from 10 clinical trials. This included 1052 women with EDM. Women were treated with a GZFL and MFP or MFP alone. The main outcomes were EDM recurrence and pregnancy outcomes. Hormone levels were also analyzed.
Pregnancy rates were 74% higher in GZFL + MFP – treated patients compared to MFP alone. EDM recurrence rates were 60% lower in women that took GZFL. GZFL + MFP treatment significantly lowered hormones estradiol and progesterone. There was no difference in the fertility hormones FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) or LH (luteinizing hormone).
No serious side effects were reported in the trials. GZFL (+ MFP) treatment reduced the risk of irregular vaginal bleeding by 46%. There was also a 55% reduction in the risk of liver dysfunction in GZFL + MFP-treated patients. 6 months of GZFL treatment improved EDM recurrence rates and pregnancy outcomes compared to 3 months.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that Guizhi Fuling may improve endometriosis symptoms in addition to mifepristone.
The fine print
The studies included in the analysis were substantially different. This makes it more difficult to analyze the results. More investigation is needed.
Published By :
Medicine
Date :
Aug 01, 2019
