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CapsaicinFibromyalgiaFlavonoids (Soy)HomeopathySAMe

Review: CAM for fibromyalgia

JR

Prof. Ernst and colleagues from the UK reviewed of the evidence

First, the details.

  • Single studies on 4 CAMs, and 3 on different approaches to homeopathic care were identified.
  • The quality of these studies was moderate.

Homeopathy

  • The homeopathy studies were small.
  • Each reported an improvement in pain.

Anthocyanidins, capsaicin and S-adenosylmethionine

  • Anthocyanidins are antioxidants of the flavonoid family.
  • Capsaicin is an ingredient in hot peppers.
  • S-adenosylmethionine is a nutritional supplement sold under the name SAM-e.
    • Each showed at least one significant improved outcome compared with placebo.
    • Anthocyanidins improved sleep.
    • Capsaicin reduced tenderness.

Soy

  • No evidence supported using soy based on a single study.

Most of these CAMs were free of major adverse effects but they were associated with dizziness, nausea and stomach upset.

The bottom line?

The authors were not impressed. “There is insufficient evidence on any CAM, taken orally or applied topically, for fibromyalgia.

High quality studies are needed to support theses preliminary results.

3/7/10 19:56 JR

Hi, I’m JR

John Russo, Jr., PharmD, is president of The MedCom Resource, Inc. Previously, he was senior vice president of medical communications at www.Vicus.com, a complementary and alternative medicine website.

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