A multicentric open clinical trial to evaluate the usefulness of 13 predefined homoeopathic medicines in the management of acute rhinitis in children.

Abstract

Aims : The study aimed to evaluate the effect of a group of homoeopathic medicines in children with acute rhinitis. Materials and Methods : In this multi-centric open clinical trial, a total of 784 children (408 males; 384 females) aged 6 months to 15 years, presenting symptoms of acute rhinitis were enrolled from 7 Institutes/ Units under the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (India). Symptoms were assessed using an acute rhinitis symptom score (ARSS). A total of 13 homoeopathic medicines were shortlisted after repertorizing the nosological symptoms of acute rhinitis in children and the results were analyzed. The medicines were prescribed in dilution 6c and doses were repeated from few minutes to few hours as per the need of the case. Appearance of any change (improvement or worsening) was followed by placebo/change in dilution or change in medicine according to the response of the patient. The follow up period was up to the seventh day of illness. Results : Out of 784 children enrolled, 638 children were followed up and analyzed. A significant change in the score from the baseline (p<0.05) was observed. Twelve medicines were found to be useful in 638 children suffering from acute rhinitis and among them Nux-v (n=109), Merc (n=106) and Bell (n=88) were the most useful. No complications were observed during the treatment. Adverse events in the form of hyperpyrexia were observed in 2 children only. Conclusion : This study indicates the usefulness of homoeopathic medicines in the management of acute rhinitis of children; controlled studies are needed to investigate their efficacy and effectiveness.