Clinical evaluation of homoeopathic therapy in the management of hyperlipoproteinemia

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed at evolving a group of useful homoeopathic medicines in the treatment of hyperlipoproteinaemia, to identify their reliable indications, most useful potencies, frequency of administration and relationship with other medicines. Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out during the period 1992-2003. Three hundred and twenty two patients with hyperlipoproteinaemia and various clinical presentations were studied. Patients of more than 30 years of age, with cholesterol > 200mg/dl, triglycerides > 170mg/dl, LDL > 150mg/dl, VLDL > 50mg/dl and HDL < 35 mg/dl were included in this study. Specific parameters were followed to assess the intensity of complaints and the improvement status. Homoeopathic medicines were prescribed in different potencies (Q to 10M), basing on the presenting complaints, mental and physical attributes of the patients. The patients were advised to have low calorie diet and regular exercise. Results: Two hundred ninety three (293) patients were followed up regularly and varying degrees of improvement were observed, viz. marked improvement in 77 patients, moderate improvement in 113 patients, mild improvement in 100 patients and no improvement in 03 patients. Abroma augusta 30, Gelsemium 30, Lycopodium 1M, Bryonia alba 30, Pulsatilla 30, Nux vomica 30 were found to be useful among the other prescribed medicines. Conclusion: Results obtained from the study are encouraging with findings that 26% of the patients improved markedly with an evidence of changes in laboratory parameters. However, an experiment in controlled setting with improved protocol and clearer outcome parameters is required.