Effect of Liujunzi Decoction on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis

Abstract

Introduction

Gastroesophageal reflux disease poses a common challenge in digestive health, with some patients experiencing suboptimal responses to conventional Western medicine. Liujunzi decoction (LJZD), a traditional Chinese medicine classic formula, widely employed for gastroesophageal reflux disease in Asia, lacks sufficient evidence-based support for its clinical efficacy. Therefore, this study compared the safety and efficacy of LJZD and proton pump inhibitors for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux using meta analysis.

Methods

A comprehensive search of online databases for published clinical trials was carried out up to February 2024. The research selection, gathering of data, quality evaluation, and data analysis techniques were all guided by Cochrane guidelines. Key outcome measures comprised the total clinical response rate (TCE), recurrence rate, frequency scale for the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, and gastrointestinal symptom rating scale.

Results

Nineteen randomised controlled trials involving 1 941 patients were incorporated into this systematic review and meta analysis. Liujunzi decoction exhibited significantly superior overall efficacy compared to the proton pump inhibitors group, with a higher TCE (OR = 4.04, 95% CI 2.79–5.84, P < 0.001). Treatment with LJZD reduced recurrence rates, and no notable distinctions were observed in frequency scale for the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and gastrointestinal symptom rating scale. Combining LJZD with Western medicine notably ameliorated gastroesophageal reflux symptoms compared to Western medicine alone.

Conclusions

Liujunzi decoction, whether used alone or in combination with Western medicine, is a safe and effective treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GRED).