Behandlung von Rückenschmerzen mit Harpagophytum procumbens (Burch.) De Candolle ("Teufelskralle")

Author(s): Schulze, J.

Abstract: Aim: A randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out over four weeks to investigate the efficacy of a herbal remedy containing a crude preparation of Harpagophytum procumbens D.C. (devil's claw) as the active ingredient for the treatment of low back pain.Patients and methods: 118 patients suffering from low back pain for 14,3 years in average were recruited. Herbal medication (Doloteffin ) was given as 2 tablets three times a day, corresponding to 3 x 800 mg (2,5: 1) active ingredient or 3 x 2 tablets placebo medication. The patients were randomly distributed amongst verum and placebo medication. 109 completed cases were collected. The study's main objective criterion was a Low back pain rating scale (Arhus Index) including the three aspects pain intensity (back pain, leg pain), disability and physical impairment. lt was assessed before and after the four week period of therapy. Efficacy and tolerance of the medication as judged by doctor and patient as well as laboratory and vital parameters were additional criteria.Results: Within the 4th week of therapy the improvement of the Arhus Index was more distinct in those patients receiving the herbal remedy than in those receiving placebo. This improvement was based on a significant improvement of the pain aspect. The aspects disability and physical impairment both were not influenced by the therapy. Only non-serious adverse drug reactions were observed, with a frequency significantly higher in the placebo group.Conclusion: The results of this clinical study suggest the use of a herbal remedy, including a crude preparation of Harpagophytum procumbens as the active ingredient as a supportive measure in the treatment of low back pain. The therapy is almost free of side-effects. Especially for this reason it is a welcome and cheap alternative to long-term treatment with nonsteroidal antiphlogistics and glucocorticoids which often have side-effects, sometimes with serious consequences

Keyword(s): Rückenschmerzen

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