Sihogayonggolmoryeo – tang in the treatment of depression in stroke survivors

This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of Sihogayonggolmoryeo – tang (SGYMT) in the treatment of depression after stroke. Researchers suggested that SGYMT might improve the outcomes of these patients.

Stroke is a brain condition caused by the blockage of blood flow to the brain. The brain cells stop receiving oxygen and begin to die. This leaves the patient with side effects such as paralysis. Depression after stroke is one of the most common complications, affecting 30 to 35% of stroke survivors. This affects the stroke-related treatment and quality of life of these patients.

Depression is often treated with anti-depression medication. Prior studies showed that this type of medication does not necessarily improve daily activities. Moreover, it has been associated with an increased risk of a second stroke.

SGYMT is an herbal mix of 11 different herbs. It has been recommended for several mental disorders such as anxiety. Prior studies showed that SGYMT alone or in combination with antidepressants improved the treatment outcomes. However, the role of SGYMT in the treatment of depression in stroke survivors is not clear.

This study reviewed 21 other studies on the effects of SGYMT. It included information about 1644 stroke survivors with depression symptoms.

SGYMT was associated with improved treatment outcomes for depression. Moreover, it was also associated with fewer negative side effects when compared to antidepressants. Patients receiving SGYMT had an 87% improvement in the odds of better safety. In the first 8 weeks, SGYMT was associated with better outcomes compared to antidepressants, but after that, this difference between groups disappeared.

This study concluded that SGYMT alone or in combination with antidepressants reduces depression symptoms with fewer side effects in stroke survivors.

This study analyzed data from different studies with different protocols. Further research is needed for stronger evidence.