Clinical efficacy of Japanese traditional herbal medicine (Kampo) in patients with late-onset hypogonadism.

INTRODUCTION

In addition to hormone replacement therapy, non-hormonal therapy, particularly Japanese traditional herbal medicine (Kampo), has been used to alleviate the various symptoms of female menopause. The efficacy and safety of Japanese traditional herbal medicine for male late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) are investigated.

METHODS

One hundred fifty-one patients with LOH were treated via the administration of Japanese traditional herbal medicine. The most appropriate Japanese traditional herbal medicine was administered to patients according to their pathogenic alteration. After 4 weeks, the clinical efficacy was evaluated based on improvement of LOH symptoms and the score of the simplified menopausal index (SMI). Additionally, predictive factors of efficacy of Japanese traditional herbal medicine were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 151 patients with LOH, 63 (41.8%) achieved both relief from LOH symptoms and normalized SMI score (Excellent response group), whereas 44 (29.1%) achieved either relief from LOH symptoms or normalized SMI score (Fair). However, 44 (29.1%) patients displayed neither relief from LOH symptoms nor normalized SMI score (Poor). Adverse reactions were observed only in four (2.6%) patients. Patients displaying excess conditions and mild LOH symptoms appeared to be superior candidates for Japanese traditional herbal medicine.

CONCLUSION

Japanese traditional herbal medicine is an effective and safe treatment for LOH.