Clinical efficacy analysis of Buzhongyiqi Decoction for cough variant asthma

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical efficacy of Buzhongyiqi Decoction plus budesonide formoterol for cough variant asthma (CVA). Methods Prospective, randomized and controlled methods were adopted for dividing the eligible subjects into trial group (Buzhongyiqi Decoction + budesonide/formoterol) and control group (only budesonide/formoterol). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed for measuring the pre-dosing and post-dosing serum levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), interleukin-4 (IL-4), eosinophil (EOS). Lung function test of two groups was performed.The changes of symptoms and signs such as the times of cough, the degree of cough, the degree of itching of pharynx, the condition of shortness of breath and expectoration were recorded synchronously. Results The effective rate was markedly higher in trial group than that in control group (χ2=3.950, P<0.05). Lung functions improved greatly in both groups after treatment, forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were better in trial group than that in control group (t=4.628, 8.427, both P<0.05). After treatment, the serum levels of NGF, IL-4 and EOS were significantly decreased in both groups, especially in the trial group (t=7.982, 9.673, 5.671, all P<0.05). Conclusions Buzhongyiqi Decoction plus budesonide formoterol is effective in the treatment of CVA, which can improve lung function and immune function in CVA patients.It is worth popularizing in clinic. Key words: Cough variant asthma; Buzhongyiqi Decoction; Respiratory function; Nerve growth factor