1
|
Büttner R, Schwermer M, Ostermann T, Längler A, Zuzak T. Expert consensus-based clinical recommendation for an integrative anthroposophic treatment approach to acute tonsillitis in childhood. Complement Ther Med 2024; 81:103031. [PMID: 38432580 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2024.103031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical guidelines are an important basis for qualitative and cost-effective patient care. However, there is a lack of clinical recommendations in anthroposophic medicine (AM), an integrative medicine approach frequently practised in Europe. Acute tonsillitis, which includes tonsillopharyngitis, is a common childhood disease. that is mostly caused by a viral infection. Symptomatic treatment is therefore of high importance, and AM can offer several therapy options. METHODS 53 physicians from Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, and Hungary with at least one year of experience in anthroposophic paediatric medicine were invited to participate in an online Delphi process. The process comprises five survey rounds starting with open-ended questions and ending with final statements, which need 75% agreement of experts to reach consensus. Expert answers were evaluated by two independent reviewers using MAXQDA and Excel. RESULTS Response rate was between 28% and 45%. The developed recommendation included 15 subtopics. These covered clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic and psychosocial aspects of acute tonsillitis. Six subtopics achieved a high consensus (>90%) and nine subtopics achieved consensus (75-90%). CONCLUSION The clinical recommendation for acute tonsillitis in children aims to simplify everyday patient care and provide decision-making support when considering and prescribing anthroposophic therapies. Moreover, the recommendation makes AM more transparent for physicians, parents, and maybe political stakeholders as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Büttner
- Department of Pediatrics, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, Germany; Integrative Pediatrics, Witten/Herdecke University, Faculty of Health, Germany
| | - Melanie Schwermer
- Department of Pediatrics, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, Germany; Integrative Pediatrics, Witten/Herdecke University, Faculty of Health, Germany.
| | - Thomas Ostermann
- Department of Psychology, Chair of Research Methodology and Statistics in Psychology, Witten/Herdecke University, Germany
| | - Alfred Längler
- Department of Pediatrics, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, Germany; Integrative Pediatrics, Witten/Herdecke University, Faculty of Health, Germany
| | - Tycho Zuzak
- Department of Pediatrics, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vagedes J, Huber BM, Islam MOA, Vagedes K, Kohl M, von Schoen-Angerer T. Antibiotic Use in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Practicing Integrative Medicine-A Retrospective Analysis. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE 2024; 30:394-402. [PMID: 37815790 PMCID: PMC11001955 DOI: 10.1089/jicm.2023.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Background: Antibiotic use in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) remains high. Low antibiotic prescribing has been documented among physicians trained in complementary medicine. This study sought to identify if an NICU integrating complementary medicine has low antibiotic prescribing. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis at the level-2 NICU of the Filderklinik, an integrative medicine hospital in Southern Germany, to compare antibiotic use locally and internationally; to compare neonates with suspected infection, managed with and without antibiotics; and to describe use and safety of complementary medicinal products. Results: Among 7778 live births, 1086 neonates were hospitalized between 2014 and 2017. Two hundred forty-six were diagnosed with suspected or confirmed infection, their median gestational age was 40.3 weeks (range 29-42), 3.25% had a birthweight <2500 g, 176 were treated with antibiotics for a median duration of 4 days, 6 had culture-proven infection (0.77 per 1000 live births), and 2.26% of live births were started on antibiotics. A total of 866 antibiotic treatment days corresponded to 111 antibiotic days per 1000 live births and 8.8 antibiotic days per 100 hospital days. Neonates managed with antibiotics more often had fever and abnormal laboratory parameters than those managed without. Complementary medicinal products comprising 71 different natural substances were used, no side effect or adverse event were described. A subanalysis using the inclusion criteria of a recent analysis of 13 networks in Europe, North America, and Australia confirmed this cohort to be among the lowest prescribing networks. Conclusions: Antibiotic use was low in this NICU in both local and international comparison, while the disease burden was in the mid-range, confirming an association between integrative medicine practice and low antibiotic prescribing in newborns. Complementary medicinal products were widely used and well tolerated. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT04893343.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Vagedes
- ARCIM Institute, Filderstadt, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, Filderklinik, Filderstadt, Germany
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Benedikt M. Huber
- Center for Integrative Pediatrics, Fribourg Cantonal Hospital, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Community Health, Fribourg University, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Matthias Kohl
- Institute of Precision Medicine, University Furtwangen, Furtwangen, Germany
| | - Tido von Schoen-Angerer
- ARCIM Institute, Filderstadt, Germany
- Center for Integrative Pediatrics, Fribourg Cantonal Hospital, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Community Health, Fribourg University, Fribourg, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Veldman LBM, Belt-Van Zoen E, Baars EW. Mechanistic Evidence of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees, Pelargonium sidoides DC., Echinacea Species and a Combination of Hedera helix L., Primula veris L./ Primula elatior L. and Thymus vulgaris L./ Thymus zygis L. in the Treatment of Acute, Uncomplicated Respiratory Tract Infections: A Systematic Literature Review and Expert Interviews. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1206. [PMID: 37765014 PMCID: PMC10537612 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Reducing inappropriate antibiotic (AB) use by using effective non-antibiotic treatments is one strategy to prevent and reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees, Pelargonium sidoides DC., Echinacea species and a combination of ivy (Hedera helix L.), primrose (Primula veris L./Primula elatior L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L./Thymus zygis L.) have promising clinical effects in uncomplicated, acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) treatment. However, mechanistic evidence of these herbal treatments is lacking. The objective of this Pstudy is to provide an overview of mechanistic evidence for these effects. Thirty-eight databases were searched. Included studies were mechanistic studies (in vitro, animal, and human studies and reviews) on these herbs; published before June 2021. Non-mechanistic studies or studies on combinations of herbs other than ivy/primrose/thyme were excluded. Furthermore, three experts in traditional, complementary and integrative healthcare (TCIH) research and pharmacognosy were interviewed to collect additional expert knowledge. The results show that A. paniculata acts through immunomodulation and antiviral activity, possibly supplemented by antibacterial and antipyretic effects. P. sidoides acts through antiviral, indirect antibacterial, immunomodulatory and expectorant effects. Echinacea species likely act through immunomodulation. The combination of ivy/primrose/thyme combines secretolytic and spasmolytic effects from ivy with antibacterial effects from thyme. Studies on primrose were lacking. This mechanistic evidence supports the difference-making evidence from clinical studies, contributes to evidence-based recommendations for their use in URTI treatment, and guides future mechanistic studies on URTI treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liesbeth B. M. Veldman
- Faculty of Healthcare, University of Applied Sciences Leiden, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eefje Belt-Van Zoen
- Faculty of Healthcare, University of Applied Sciences Leiden, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Erik W. Baars
- Faculty of Healthcare, University of Applied Sciences Leiden, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands
- Louis Bolk Institute, 3981 Bunnik, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Influence of Alternative Lifestyles on Antibiotic Use during Pregnancy, Lactation and in Children. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10070837. [PMID: 34356758 PMCID: PMC8300802 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10070837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative lifestyles are likely to be associated with distinct usage of specific medicinal products. Our goal was to find out whether the intake of antibiotics during pregnancy and by children differs according to whether the mothers have alternative or conventional lifestyles. Therefore, we investigated the use of antibiotics by pregnant women and by children up to 11 years of age participating in the KOALA Birth Cohort Study. This cohort comprises two recruitment groups of mother–infant pairs, one with alternative lifestyles (selected via organic food shops, anthroposophic clinicians and midwives, anthroposophic under-five clinics, Rudolf Steiner schools and relevant magazines, n = 491) the other with conventional lifestyles (no selection based on lifestyle, n = 2343). Mothers in the alternative lifestyle group more frequently adhered to specific living rules and identified themselves with anthroposophy more than mothers in the conventional lifestyle group. The results revealed significant differences in antibiotic use during pregnancy and in children from 3 months to 10 years of age between the two groups. The rate of antibiotic use in children was consistently lower in the alternative lifestyle group than in the conventional lifestyle group. Antibiotic use in pregnancy was higher in low educated women, and maternal antibiotic use during lactation was higher after an instrumented delivery in hospital. Antibiotic use in the infant was higher when they had older sibs or were born in hospital, and lower in those who had been longer breastfed. After adjustment for these factors, the differences in antibiotic use between the alternative and conventional groups remained. The results suggest that an alternative lifestyle is associated with cautious antibiotic use during pregnancy, lactation and in children.
Collapse
|
5
|
The P.E.A.N.U.T. Method: Update on an Integrative System Approach for the Treatment of Chronic Otitis Media with Effusion and Adenoid Hypertrophy in Children. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10020134. [PMID: 33573118 PMCID: PMC7911258 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10020134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Based on our previous single-center study on optimization of treatment of chronic otitis media with effusion (COME) and adenoid hypertrophy (AH) in children using a noninvasive system approach to lower the necessity of antibiotics, analgesic use, and surgical interventions, we proceeded to perform a multicenter investigation in an outpatient setting. The purpose of the previous prospective study in 2013-2015 was to compare outcomes in the treatment of COME and AH using the noninvasive multimodal integrative method (IM) versus conventional treatment practice (COM). MATERIALS AND METHODS In this paper, we retrospectively analyze the data of patients treated with the integrative method between 2017 and 2020 in a multicenter setting and compared the outcomes with data from 2013-2015 in order to evaluate generalizability. In both periods, all eligible and willing participants were included and treated with the IM protocol under real-life conditions. The treatment involved pneumatization exercises, education, an antiallergic diet, nasal hygiene, useful constitutional therapy, and thermal interventions (P.E.A.N.U.T.). A total of 48 versus 28 patients, aged 1-8, were assessed, presenting with COME and AH, with moderate to severe hearing impairment at entry. RESULTS The significant improvement found in both audiometric measures (intact hearing) and tympanometric measures (normal A-type curve) was similar in both datasets with respect to conventional treatment. The new data confirms that the P.E.A.N.U.T. method results in a significant reduction of antibiotics, analgesic use, and surgical interventions. CONCLUSION In this multicenter trial, we confirm the effectiveness of the noninvasive system approach for the treatment of COME in lowering the need for antibiotics and analgesic use and elective surgery. This could be especially important with respect to a generally observed increase in antibiotic resistance. The method is easy to perform in different clinical settings and is effective, safe, and well-tolerated.
Collapse
|
6
|
Bartelme RR. Anthroposophic Medicine: A Short Monograph and Narrative Review-Foundations, Essential Characteristics, Scientific Basis, Safety, Effectiveness and Misconceptions. Glob Adv Health Med 2020; 9:2164956120973634. [PMID: 33457106 PMCID: PMC7783888 DOI: 10.1177/2164956120973634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anthroposophic medicine is a form of integrative medicine that originated in Europe but is not well known in the US. It is comprehensive and heterogenous in scope and remains provocative and controversial in many academic circles. Assessment of the nature and potential contribution of anthroposophic medicine to whole person care and global health seems appropriate. METHODS Because of the heterogenous and multifaceted character of anthroposophic medicine, a narrative review format was chosen. A Health Technology Assessment of anthroposophic medicine in 2006 was reviewed and used as a starting point. A Medline search from 2006 to July 2020 was performed using various search terms and restricted to English. Books, articles, reviews and websites were assessed for clinical relevance and interest to the general reader. Abstracts of German language articles were reviewed when available. Reference lists of articles and the author's personal references were also consulted. RESULTS The literature on anthroposophic medicine is vast, providing new ways of thinking, a holistic view of the world, and many integrating concepts useful in medicine. In the last ∼20 years there has been a growing research base and implementation of many anthroposophical concepts in the integrated care of patients. Books and articles relevant to describing the foundations, scientific status, safety, effectiveness and criticisms of anthroposophic medicine are discussed. DISCUSSION An objective and comprehensive analysis of anthroposophic medicine finds it provocative, stimulating and potentially fruitful as an integrative system for whole person care, including under-recognized life processes and psychospiritual aspects of human beings. It has a legitimate, new type of scientific status as well as documented safety and effectiveness in some areas of its multimodal approach. Criticisms and controversies of anthroposophic medicine are often a result of lack of familiarity with its methods and approach and/or come from historically fixed ideas of what constitutes legitimate science.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo R Bartelme
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Medical
School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Evidence map on the contributions of traditional, complementary and integrative medicines for health care in times of COVID-19. Integr Med Res 2020; 9:100473. [PMID: 32766112 PMCID: PMC7362868 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the pandemic, there is a significant interest in the therapeutic resources linked to TCIM to support potentially therapeutic research and intervention in the management of Coronavirus - 19 (COVID-19). At the date of this evidence map´s publication, there is no evidence of specific treatments for COVID-19. This map organizes information about symptoms management (especially on dimensions related to mental health and mild viral respiratory infections, as well as immune system strengthening and antiviral activity). Method This evidence map applies methodology developed by Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information based on the 3iE evidence gap map. A search was performed in the Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine Virtual Health Library and PubMed, using the MeSH and DeCS terms for respiratory viral diseases associated with epidemics, COVID-19 symptoms, relevant mental health topics, pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions related to TCIM. Results For the map, 126 systematic reviews and controlled clinical studies were characterized, distributed in a matrix with 62 interventions (18 phytotherapy, 9 mind-body therapies, 11 traditional Chinese medicine, 7 homeopathic and anthroposophic dynamized medicines and 17 supplements), and 67 outcomes (14 immunological response, 23 mental health, 25 complementary clinical management of the infection and 5 other). Conclusion The map presents an overview of possible TCIM contributions to various dimensions of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the field of mental health, and it is directed to researchers and health professionals specialized in TCIM. Most of the antiviral activity outcomes described in this map refers to respiratory viruses in general, and not specifically to SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2). This information may be useful to guide new research, but not necessarily to support a therapeutic recommendation. Finally, any suspicion of COVID-19 infection should follow the protocols recommended by the health authorities of each country/region.
Collapse
|
8
|
Willcox M, Donovan E, Hu XY, Elboray S, Jerrard N, Roberts N, Santer M. Views regarding use of complementary therapies for acute respiratory infections: Systematic review of qualitative studies. Complement Ther Med 2020; 50:102382. [PMID: 32444047 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unnecessary antibiotic prescribing and use are most common for uncomplicated acute respiratory infections (ARIs). Some Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) treatments have evidence of effectiveness for symptom relief and could be used instead of antibiotics. AIM To understand views of the general public and health professionals regarding use of CAM for uncomplicated ARIs. DESIGN AND SETTING Systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative studies. METHOD We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, COREHOM, CINAHL, Dissertation and theses global and Web of Science Core Collection. We included studies which reported qualitative data on the use of CAM for uncomplicated ARIs where participants were either patients or parents of patients, health professionals or the general public. Analysis followed thematic synthesis. RESULTS Twenty-two studies were included from four high-income and ten low-and-middle income countries; almost all focussed on non-White populations. Nineteen concerned parents' treatment of ARIs in their children. In all settings, treatment decisions were influenced by beliefs about the illness (cause, severity), beliefs about treatments (efficacy, safety), availability of treatments and of trustworthy advice. Participants mostly thought CAM is an acceptable option for treatment of mild ARIs but felt that they need trustworthy advice on which treatments to use and when. CONCLUSION Treatment decisions depend on beliefs about the illness and treatments, availability of treatments and advice. CAM treatments appear to be acceptable to people from many different settings as a possible alternative to antibiotics for mild ARIs. There is a need for reliable, evidence-based advice on which treatments to use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merlin Willcox
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Close, Southampton SO16 5ST, United Kingdom.
| | - Emily Donovan
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Close, Southampton SO16 5ST, United Kingdom
| | - Xiao-Yang Hu
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Close, Southampton SO16 5ST, United Kingdom
| | - Shereen Elboray
- University Hospital Southampton, Wessex Deanery, Health Education England, United Kingdom
| | - Naomi Jerrard
- Medical School, University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nia Roberts
- Bodleian Healthcare Libraries, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam Santer
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Aldermoor Close, Southampton SO16 5ST, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Contributing to Global Health: Development of a Consensus-Based Whole Systems Research Strategy for Anthroposophic Medicine. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:3706143. [PMID: 31781267 PMCID: PMC6875260 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3706143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Whole medicine and health systems like traditional and complementary medicine systems (T&CM) are part of healthcare around the world. One key feature of T&CM is its focus on patient-centered and multimodal care and the integration of intercultural perspectives in a wide range of settings. It may contribute to good health and well being for people as part of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. The authentic, rigorous, and fair evaluation of such a medical system, with its inherent complexity and individualization, imposes methodological challenges. Hence, we propose a broad research strategy to test and characterize its possible contribution to health. Methods To develop a research strategy for a specific T&CM system, Anthroposophic Medicine (AM), applying multimodal integrative healthcare based on a four-level concept of man, we used a three-phase consensus process with experts and key stakeholders, consisting of (1) premeeting methodological literature and AM research review and interviews to supplement or revise items of the research strategy and tailor them to AM research, (2) face-to-face consensus meetings further developing and tailoring the strategy, and (3) postmeeting feedback and review, followed by finalization. Results Currently, AM covers many fields of medical specialties in varied levels of healthcare settings, such as outpatient and inpatient; primary, secondary, and tertiary care; and health education and pedagogy. It is by definition integrated with conventional medicine in the public healthcare system. It applies specific medicines, nursing techniques, arts therapies, eurythmy therapy, rhythmical massage, counseling, and psychotherapy, and it is provided by medical doctors, nurses, therapists, midwives, and nutritionists. A research strategy authentic to this level of complexity should comprise items with a focus on (I) efficacy and effectiveness, divided into (a) evaluation of the multimodal and multidisciplinary medical system as a whole, or of complex multimodal therapy concept, (b) a reasonable amount of methodologically rigorous, confirmatory randomized controlled trials on exemplary pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies and indications, (c) a wide range of interventions and patient-centered care strategies with less extensive formats like well-conducted small trails, observational studies, and high-quality case reports and series, or subgroup analyses from whole-system studies, or health service research; (II) safety; (III) economics; (IV) evidence synthesis; (V) methodologic issues; (VI) biomedical, physiological, pharmacological, pharmaceutical, psychological, anthropological, and nosological issues as well as innovation and development; (VI) patient perspective and involvement, public needs, and ethics; (VII) educational matters and professionalism; and (IX) disease prevention, health promotion, and public health. Conclusion The research strategy extends to and complements the prevailing hierarchical system by introducing a broad “evidence house” approach to evaluation, something many health technology assessment boards today support. It may provide transparent and comprehensive insight into potential benefits or risks of AM. It can serve as a framework for an evidence-informed approach to AM for a variety of stakeholders and collaborating networks with the aim of improving global health.
Collapse
|
10
|
Baars EW, Zoen EBV, Breitkreuz T, Martin D, Matthes H, von Schoen-Angerer T, Soldner G, Vagedes J, van Wietmarschen H, Patijn O, Willcox M, von Flotow P, Teut M, von Ammon K, Thangavelu M, Wolf U, Hummelsberger J, Nicolai T, Hartemann P, Szőke H, McIntyre M, van der Werf ET, Huber R. The Contribution of Complementary and Alternative Medicine to Reduce Antibiotic Use: A Narrative Review of Health Concepts, Prevention, and Treatment Strategies. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2019; 2019:5365608. [PMID: 30854009 PMCID: PMC6378062 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5365608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this narrative review was to explore the potential contributions of CAM to reduce antibiotic use. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews with a specific, limited set of search terms and collected input from a group of expert CAM researchers to answer the question: What is known about the contribution of CAM health and health promotion concepts, infection prevention, and infection treatment strategies to reduce antibiotic use? Results. The worldview-related CAM health concepts enable health promotion oriented infection prevention and treatment aimed at strengthening or supporting the self-regulating ability of the human organism to cope with diseases. There is some evidence that the CAM concepts of health (promotion) are in agreement with current conceptualization of health and that doctors who practice both CAM and conventional medicine prescribe less antibiotics, although selection bias of the presented studies cannot be ruled out. There is some evidence that prevention and some treatment strategies are effective and safe. Many CAM treatment strategies are promising but overall lack high quality evidence. CONCLUSIONS CAM prevention and treatment strategies may contribute to reducing antibiotic use, but more rigorous research is necessary to provide high quality evidence of (cost-)effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik W. Baars
- Louis Bolk Institute, Kosterijland 3-5, 3981 AJ Bunnik, Netherlands
- University of Applied Sciences Leiden, Faculty of Healthcare, Zernikedreef 11, 2333 CK Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Eefje Belt-van Zoen
- University of Applied Sciences Leiden, Faculty of Healthcare, Zernikedreef 11, 2333 CK Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - David Martin
- University of Witten/Herdecke, Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448 Witten, Germany
| | - Harald Matthes
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Luisenstr. 57, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Georg Soldner
- Medical section of the Goetheanum, Rüttiweg 45 4143 Dornach, Switzerland
| | - Jan Vagedes
- ARCIM institute, Im Haberschlai 7, 70794 Filderstadt, Germany
| | | | - Olga Patijn
- Louis Bolk Institute, Kosterijland 3-5, 3981 AJ Bunnik, Netherlands
| | - Merlin Willcox
- University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Paschen von Flotow
- Sustainable Business Institute, Zehnthofstr. 1, 65375 Oestrich-Winkel, Germany
| | - Michael Teut
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Luisenstr. 57, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus von Ammon
- University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 46, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Madan Thangavelu
- European Ayurveda Association e.V., In den Forstwiesen 27, D- 56745 Bell, Germany
| | - Ursula Wolf
- University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 46, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Ton Nicolai
- Eurocam, Rue du Trône 194, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Hartemann
- University of Lorraine, School of Medicine, 7 avenue de la Forêt de Haye, 54500 Vandoeuvre-Nancy, France
| | - Henrik Szőke
- University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Vasvári Pál str. 4., Hungary
| | - Michael McIntyre
- Midsummer Clinic, Church Westcote, Chipping Norton, Oxon, Ox7 6SF, UK
| | - Esther T. van der Werf
- Taylor's University, School of Medicine, 1, Jalan Taylor's, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor D.E., Malaysia
- University of Bristol, Bristol Medical School, Canynge Hall, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK
| | - Roman Huber
- University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Breisacher Str. 115b, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
van der Werf ET, Duncan LJ, Flotow PV, Baars EW. Do NHS GP surgeries employing GPs additionally trained in integrative or complementary medicine have lower antibiotic prescribing rates? Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of national primary care prescribing data in England in 2016. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e020488. [PMID: 29555793 PMCID: PMC5875618 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-020488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine differences in antibiotic prescription rates between conventional General Practice (GP) surgeries and GP surgeries employing general practitioners (GPs) additionally trained in integrative medicine (IM) or complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) (referred to as IM GPs) working within National Health Service (NHS) England. DESIGN Retrospective study on antibiotic prescription rates per STAR-PU (Specific Therapeutic group Age-sex weighting Related Prescribing Unit) using NHS Digital data over 2016. Publicly available data were used on prevalence of relevant comorbidities, demographics of patient populations and deprivation scores. SETTING Primary Care. PARTICIPANTS 7283 NHS GP surgeries in England. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE The association between IM GPs and antibiotic prescribing rates per STAR-PU with the number of antibiotic prescriptions (total, and for respiratory tract infection (RTI) and urinary tract infection (UTI) separately) as outcome. RESULTS IM GP surgeries (n=9) were comparable to conventional GP surgeries in terms of list sizes, demographics, deprivation scores and comorbidity prevalence. Negative binomial regression models showed that statistically significant fewer total antibiotics (relative risk (RR) 0.78, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.97) and RTI antibiotics (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.94) were prescribed at NHS IM GP surgeries compared with conventional NHS GP surgeries. In contrast, the number of antibiotics prescribed for UTI were similar between both practices. CONCLUSION NHS England GP surgeries employing GPs additionally trained in IM/CAM have lower antibiotic prescribing rates. Accessibility of IM/CAM within NHS England primary care is limited. Main study limitation is the lack of consultation data. Future research should include the differences in consultation behaviour of patients self-selecting to consult an IM GP or conventional surgery, and its effect on antibiotic prescription. Additional treatment strategies for common primary care infections used by IM GPs should be explored to see if they could be used to assist in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther T van der Werf
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Lorna J Duncan
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Erik W Baars
- Louis Bolk Institute, Bunnik, The Netherlands
- University of Applied Sciences, Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hamre HJ, Pham VN, Kern C, Rau R, Klasen J, Schendel U, Gerlach L, Drabik A, Simon L. A 4-year non-randomized comparative phase-IV study of early rheumatoid arthritis: integrative anthroposophic medicine for patients with preference against DMARDs versus conventional therapy including DMARDs for patients without preference. Patient Prefer Adherence 2018; 12:375-397. [PMID: 29588576 PMCID: PMC5859899 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s145221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are a mainstay of therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), some patients with early RA refuse DMARDs. In anthroposophic medicine (AM), a treatment strategy for early RA without DMARDs has been developed. Preliminary data suggest that RA symptoms and inflammatory markers can be reduced under AM, without DMARDs. PATIENTS AND METHODS Two hundred and fifty-one self-selected patients aged 16-70 years, starting treatment for RA of <3 years duration, without prior DMARD therapy, participated in a prospective, non-randomized, comparative Phase IV study. C-patients were treated in clinics offering conventional therapy including DMARDs, while A-patients had chosen treatment in anthroposophic clinics, without DMARDs. Both groups received corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Primary outcomes were intensity of RA symptoms measured by self-rating on visual analog scales, C-reactive protein, radiological progression, study withdrawals, serious adverse events (SAE), and adverse drug reactions in months 0-48. RESULTS The groups were similar in most baseline characteristics, while A-patients had longer disease duration (mean 15.1 vs 10.8 months, p<0.0001), slightly more bone destruction, and a much higher proportion of women (94.6% vs 69.7%, p<0.0001). In months 0-12, corticosteroids were used by 45.7% and 81.6% (p<0.0001) and NSAIDs by 52.8% and 68.5% (p=0.0191) of A- and C-patients, respectively. During follow-up, both groups not only had marked reduction of RA symptoms and C-reactive protein, but also some radiological disease progression. Also, 6.2% of A-patients needed DMARDs. Apart from adverse drug reactions (50.4% and 69.7% of A- and C-patients, respectively, p=0.0020), none of the primary outcomes showed any significant between-group difference. CONCLUSION Study results suggest that for most patients preferring anthroposophic treatment, satisfactory results can be achieved without use of DMARDs and with less use of corticosteroids and NSAIDs than in conventional care. LIMITATION Because of the non-randomized study design, with A-patients choosing anthroposophic treatment, one cannot infer how this treatment would have worked for C-patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harald J Hamre
- Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology at the Witten/Herdecke University, Freiburg, Germany
- Correspondence: Harald J Hamre, Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology at the University of Witten-Herdecke, Zechenweg 6, 79111 Freiburg, Germany, Tel +49 761 1560 307, Fax +49 761 6125 6125, Email
| | - Van N Pham
- Institute of Statistics in Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christian Kern
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Asklepios Westklinikum, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rolf Rau
- Department of Rheumatology, Evangelisches Fachkrankenhaus Ratingen, Ratingen, Germany
| | - Jörn Klasen
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Asklepios Westklinikum, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ute Schendel
- Department of Rheumatology, m&i-Fachklinik Bad Pyrmont, Bad Pyrmont, Germany
| | - Lars Gerlach
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Filderklinik, Filderstadt, Germany
| | - Attyla Drabik
- Institute of Statistics in Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ludger Simon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Filderklinik, Filderstadt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
von Schoen-Angerer T, Vagedes J, Schneider R, Vlach L, Pharisa C, Kleeb S, Wildhaber J, Huber BM. Acceptance, satisfaction and cost of an integrative anthroposophic program for pediatric respiratory diseases in a Swiss teaching hospital: An implementation report. Complement Ther Med 2017; 40:179-184. [PMID: 30219445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For the pilot phase of an integrative pediatric program, we defined inpatient treatment algorithms for bronchiolitis, asthma and pneumonia, using medications and nursing techniques from anthroposophic medicine (AM). Parents could choose AM treatment as add-on to conventional care. MATERIAL AND METHODS To evaluate the 18-month pilot phase, parents of AM users were asked to complete the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8) and a questionnaire on the AM treatment. Staff feedback was obtained through an open-ended questionnaire. Economic data for project set-up, medications and insurance reimbursements were collected. RESULTS A total of 351 children with bronchiolitis, asthma and pneumonia were hospitalized. Of these, 137 children (39%) received AM treatment, with use increasing over time. 52 parents completed the questionnaire. Mean CSQ-8 score was 29.77 (95% CI 29.04-30.5) which is high in literature comparison. 96% of parents were mostly or very satisfied with AM; 96% considered AM as somewhat or very helpful for their child; 94% considered they learnt skills to better care for their child. The staff questionnaire revealed positive points about enlarged care offer, closer contact with the child, more relaxed children and greater role for parents; weak points included insufficient knowledge of AM and additional nursing time needed. Cost for staff training and medications were nearly compensated by AM related insurance reimbursements. CONCLUSIONS Introduction of anthroposophic treatments were well-accepted and led to high parent satisfaction. Additional insurance reimbursements outweighed costs. The program has now been expanded into a center for integrative pediatrics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tido von Schoen-Angerer
- Department of Pediatrics, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Fribourg, Switzerland; ARCIM Institute, Filderklinik, Filderstadt, Germany.
| | - Jan Vagedes
- ARCIM Institute, Filderklinik, Filderstadt, Germany; Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Tübingen, Germany
| | - Romy Schneider
- Department of Pediatrics, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Livia Vlach
- Department of Pediatrics, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Cosette Pharisa
- Department of Pediatrics, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Simon Kleeb
- Institute of Hospital Pharmacy, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Wildhaber
- Department of Pediatrics, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Fribourg, Switzerland; Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Benedikt M Huber
- Department of Pediatrics, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Fribourg, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Martin DD. Fever: Views in Anthroposophic Medicine and Their Scientific Validity. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2016; 2016:3642659. [PMID: 27999605 PMCID: PMC5143743 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3642659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective. To conduct a scoping review to characterize how fever is viewed in anthroposophic medicine (AM) and discuss the scientific validity of these views. Methods. Systematic searches were run in Medline, Embase, CAMbase, and Google Scholar. Material from anthroposophic medical textbooks and articles was also used. Data was extracted and interpreted. Results. Most of the anthroposophic literature on this subject is in the German language. Anthroposophic physicians hold a beneficial view on fever, rarely suppress fever with antipyretics, and often use complementary means of alleviating discomfort. In AM, fever is considered to have the following potential benefits: promoting more complete recovery; preventing infection recurrences and atopic diseases; providing a unique opportunity for caregivers to provide loving care; facilitating individual development and resilience; protecting against cancer and boosting the anticancer effects of mistletoe products. These views are discussed with regard to the available scientific data. Conclusion. AM postulates that fever can be of short-term and long-term benefit in several ways; many of these opinions have become evidence-based (though still often not practiced) while others still need empirical studies to be validated, refuted, or modified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David D. Martin
- University Children's Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
- Filderklinik, Filderstadt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Szőke H, Maródi M, Sallay Z, Székely B, Sterner MG, Hegyi G. Integrative versus Conventional Therapy of Chronic Otitis Media with Effusion and Adenoid Hypertrophy in Children: A Prospective Observational Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 23:231-9. [PMID: 27607438 DOI: 10.1159/000448440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic otitis media with effusion (COME) and adenoid hypertrophy (AH) are common entities in the pediatric population. The conventional treatment approach (conventional medicine; COM) involved mainly surgery after a period of close observation. In this study, we aimed to introduce an integrative, non-invasive approach (integrative medicine; IM) for COME, AH, and associated episodes of recurrent acute otitis media, and compared outcomes with conventional treatment. METHODS We conducted a prospective, non-randomized study in an integrative primary care pediatric practice and a conventional pediatric otolaryngological clinic, where treatment modality was determined by patient preference. Out of a total 101 patients aged 1-8 years, integrative therapy was chosen by 46, and conventional treatment by 55. All patients had COME and AH diagnosed by an otolaryngologist and had moderate to severe hearing impairment. COM treatment was based on close observation over time, nasal decongestants and surgical intervention. In contrast, the IM involved a complex personalized approach with non-invasive interventions, non-allopathic medications, diet and patient education. RESULTS The number of surgical interventions (adenoidectomy, pressure-equalization tube insertion, myringotomy) was significantly less in the IM cohort (1 of 28 vs. 15 of 35 in the COM group, p < 0.001). The frequency of antibiotic use was significantly less in the IM group (p < 0.001). The frequency of analgesic use was also significantly less in the IM group (p = 0.029). Improvement in tympanometric measures (normal A-type curve) was higher in IM patients compared to expected spontaneous remission during the observation period. Improvement in audiometric measures (intact hearing) of IM patients was also higher than expected compared to spontaneous remission during the observation period. CONCLUSION Compared to conventional treatment, integrative treatment of patients with COME and AH showed significantly lower invasive surgical intervention rates and significantly decreased antibiotic and analgesic use. The integrative treatment was effective, safe and well tolerated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Szőke
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Doctoral School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|