Effects of turmeric on uremic pruritus in end stage renal disease patients: a
double-blind randomized clinical trial.
Author(s): Pakfetrat M(1), Basiri F, Malekmakan L, Roozbeh J.
Affiliation(s): Author information:
(1)Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz
University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
Publication date & source: 2014, J Nephrol. , 27(2):203-7
BACKGROUND: Uremic pruritus as a symptom that affects hemodialysis (HD) patients
can decrease the quality of life and increase morbidity in these patients. The
aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of turmeric on uremic pruritus in
HD patients.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This was a double-blind placebo-controlled trial conducted
on 100 HD patients suffering from pruritus. Patients (mean age 53.3 ± 15.8 years)
were randomized into two groups: turmeric and placebo. The pruritus score and
biochemical determinants including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)
were compared before and at the end of the study between the two groups.
RESULTS: The mean decrease in hs-CRP was significantly higher in the turmeric
than the placebo group (-0.8 ± 2.6 vs. 0.4 ± 8.7 mg/l, p = 0.012). Also reduction
of pruritus scores was greater in the turmeric than the placebo group (13.6 ± 2.6
vs. 7.2 ± 2.6, p = 0.001). No side effect was observed during the study due to
the use of turmeric.
CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the possible efficacy of turmeric in
decreasing hs-CRP and uremic pruritus in end stage renal disease patients. Future
studies are needed to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of turmeric.
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