The effect of a homeopathic preparation on the clinical condition of patients with corticosteroid-dependent bronchial asthma.

Due to the adverse effects experienced by patients suffering from corticosteroid-dependent asthma, a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study of the homoeopathic complex preparation Engystol was undertaken on 40 patients between June and December 1993. Only patients whose FEV1 (forced expiration volume in the first second) exceeded by 50% the normal expected value and whose PEFR (peak expiratory flow rate) was 80% below the normal afternoon value were included in the study. Twenty patients received one ampule of Engystol subcutaneously every five to seven days while the remaining patients received placebo. A number of clinical parameter tests were conducted before and after the study, including granulocyte function tests conducted using the methods of Clausen, Matusiewicz and Brzenzinska, Park and Bellavite et al. The author describes briefly each method. Results showed that administation of Engystol led to statistically significant improved PEFR values, FVC values, and FEV1 values when compared to placebo where these values were reduced, and a statistically significant reduction in corticosteroid dosage was made possible for those within the Engystol group. Granulocyte funtion tests similarly showed a positive outcome in favour of Engystol. The authors conclude that Engystol is an effective therapy for bronchial asthma enabling a reduction in corticosteroid usage and reduced adverse effects.