1Department of Moalejat (Medicine), Faculty of Medicine (U), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
2Department of Ilaj Bit Tadabeer (Regimenal Therapy), Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, India
*Corresponding author: Dr. Shabnam Ansari, MD Scholar, E-mail: drshabnamansari.md@gmail.com, Phone: +91-9818168642
Online published on 27 May, 2016.
Chronic Hepatitis B (CHB) is a major health concern in terms of its high prevalence as well as restricted and costly healthcare resources in India. Unani system of Medicine has been treating hepatitis since centuries. The purpose of our study was to assess the impact of Unani treatment in treatment na ïve, CHB case and collect data to warrant further clinical trials.
We conducted a case study with a female patient of CHB, subsequently treated with Naque Shahtara as the main medicine. Case was confirmed with standard hepatitis antigen and viral measurements. Patient was treated for 6 months and followed for more than 1 year with measurement of the viral counts, liver function test, EQ5D, hepatitis related quality of life index and TTO question.
Complete virological response (CVR) was achieved within 12 weeks of treatment, evidenced by undetectable HBV DNA in the blood (>20 IU/ml). Loss of surface antigen occurred in patient and became HbsAg negative within 15 weeks of treatment. Clinical and biochemical improvements were also achieved.
We reviewed the literature related to the Naque Shahtara used for the treatment in this case. Its constituents have exhibited antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective activities, suggesting plausible mechanisms of action in this case.
The preliminary findings indicate the potential therapeutic role of Unani Medicine. Clinical trials based on Unani treatment should be conducted to explore the therapeutic potential of these medicines in CHB.
Chronic hepatitis B, Unani Medicine, Naqueshahtara, Complementary Medicine, Herbal antivirals, Hepatoprotective, warmejigar, Viral hepatitis
