Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies
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Focus Alternat Complement Ther©2005 Pharmaceutical Press
Focus Altern Complement Ther 1997; 2: 199
Recently it was demonstrated in cultured gastric mucosa cells that GLR extracts directly stimulate acid secretion in parietal cells (Gebhardt, 1997). These results are in accordance with experimental and clinical data indicating local gastric effects of gentian preparations. The findings suggest that reflectory bitter effects, mediated via taste receptors, represent a rather synergistic pharmacological action. A post-marketing surveillance study was performed to investigate the therapeutic properties of a capsulated aqueous dry GLR extract. An interim data analysis was done after completion of 205 patients.
205 patients suffering from dyspeptic symptoms were treated with an aqueous dry GLR extract (Enziagil® Magenplus, Kapseln) [1 capsule = 120mg Extr. Gentianae e rad. Spir. Sicc. (5.1)]. Mean dose and duration of treatment: 4.8 capsules per day, 15 days. The mean age was 53.3 years (65% female). The data were analysed using descriptive statistical methods.
Compared to the initial values the overall symptoms improved by 68% [feeling of pressure in the stomach (–68%), ructus (–67%), feeling of fullness (–74%), meteorism (–55%), nausea (–74%)]. Abdominal pain improved by 76%. The global efficacy was evaluated by the investigators as 31% excellent, 55% good, 9% moderate, 2% minimal, with 3% no effect. In 55.4% the global tolerance was excellent, in 38.6% it was good, in 4% moderate, in 0.5% minimal and in 1.5% bad. Five mild adverse reactions have been reported (2.4%).
Based upon the current experimental and clinical data GLR extract can be considered as an effective drug in dyspeptic symptoms which are associated with insufficient digestion. The interim results reflect a good tolerance and a low frequency of side effects. Since a reflectory bitter effect can be excluded the results support the above data which indicate a direct action of the extract on the gastric mucosa.
