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JACI Highlights - May 2006
Passalacqua et al – Aria update: I – Systematic review of complementary and alternative medicine for rhinitis and asthma
In Western countries, for cultural and historical reasons, medical approaches that differ from conventional medicine are grouped under the term of alternative medicines, but the term complementary/alternative medicine ( CAM ) is now preferred. There are numerous CAM techniques and their number has increased over the last years with the introduction of new “holistic” approaches. Recent studies report that 25% to 50% of the general population currently use or have used CAMs on at least one occasion. Complementary/alternative medicines are extensively used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and asthma, however, evidence-based recommendations are lacking. Recommendations for the use of CAMs should be based only on rigorous proof of efficacy since there is considerable cost to patients and healthcare systems. In the April 2006 issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Passalacqua et al conducted a detailed analysis of the experimental evidence concerning the clinical use of CAMs in asthma and rhinitis, paying a special attention to the scientific quality of the clinical trials. CAM is widely practiced but, from a scientific standpoint, there is no definitive or convincing proof of efficacy for most CAM in rhinitis and asthma. The use of those treatments is not supported by currently available evidence and CAMs cannot replace the current recommended therapy. In addition, CAMs may not be devoid of side effects and some of them, in particular herbal remedies, may interact with other medications.
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