Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Using the Traditional Japanese Herbal Medicine Saikokeishikankyoto: A Randomized, Observer-Blinded, Controlled Trial in Survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

Abstract EN

The Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami caused immense damage over a wide area of eastern Japan.

Hence, many survivors are at high risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

This randomized, observer-blinded, controlled trial examined the efficacy and safety of the traditional Japanese herbal formula saikokeishikankyoto (SKK) in the treatment of PTSD among survivors of this disaster.

Forty-three participants with an Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) score ≥ 25 were randomized into SKK (n=21) and control (n=22) groups.

The primary endpoint was the change in IES-R scores from baseline till after 2 weeks of treatment.

Intergroup statistical comparisons were performed.

The magnitude of changes in total IES-R scores differed significantly between the two groups (P<0.001).

Post hoc analysis showed that the total IES-R score improved significantly in the SKK group from 49.6 ± 11.9 to 25.5 ± 17.0 (P < 0.001).

Subscale scores improved significantly in the SKK group (avoidance, P=0.003; hyperarousal, P<0.001; intrusion, P<0.001).

Two-week treatment with SKK significantly improved IES-R scores among PTSD patients.

This traditional medicine may be a valid choice for the treatment of psychological and physical symptoms in PTSD patients.