An open observational trial evaluating the role of individualised homoeopathic medicines in the management of nocturnal enuresis

Abstract

Context: Nocturnal enuresis is a widespread and distressing condition that can have a deep impact on the subject’s behavioural, emotional and social life. Aim: We intend to evaluate the role of homoeopathic treatment in nocturnal enuresis. Materials and Methods: A prospective, single arm, pre‑post comparison, non-randomised, open‑label, observational trial on individuals of 5–18 years of age presenting with nocturnal enuresis at the outpatient department of The Calcutta Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital was carried out. A total of 34 individuals were enrolled. A scoring scale was developed; scores were measured at baseline, after 2nd and 4th month. The intention to treat population was statistically analysed in the end. Results: The mean age of the patients was 8.71 ± 2.73 years; gender distribution was 1:1. Compared to baseline, scores reduced significantly over 2 months (11.6 ± 1.9 vs. 9.6 ± 3.5; mean difference: 2.0 ± 2.5 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2, 2.9]; t = 4.748; P < 0.0001 two‑tailed; Student’s t‑test) and 4 months (11.6 ± 1.9 vs. 7.1 ± 4.8; mean difference: 4.5 ± 4.2 [95% CI: 3.1, 6.0]; t = 6.319; P < 0.0001). A post hoc one‑way repeated measure ANOVA indicated significant time effect (F[2,32] = 311.286, P < 0.0001). Effect size was considerably large (Cohen’s d: 0–2 months = 1.653; 0–4 months = 2.200). The most frequently indicated medicine was Kreosotum (n = 9; 26.5%). Conclusion: Homoeopathic medicines seemed to have a potential treatment effect in nocturnal enuresis. Controlled trials are warranted.