Date of Award
2013
Degree Type
Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review
Degree Name
Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine whether or not Phlogenzym (or ERC) effective in reducing moderate to severe osteoarthritis pain in adults.
STUDY DESIGN: Review of three randomized controlled trials in the English language from 2001 to 2006.
DATA SOURCES: Two double blind RCTs and one open RCT was found using Cochrane Library EBM Online Database, Ovid Medline, and PubMed Online.
OUTCOMES MEASURED: Each of the three studies measured for pain at rest, pain with motion, and restricted function at baseline assessing efficacy using the Lequesne’s Algofunctional Index, visual analog scales, and global judgment. The participants were assessed at baseline, during, and at the end of the study.
Results: Two double blind RCTs and one open RCT were included in this review and it was found that phlogenzym did not benefit osteoarthritis symptom improvement. Adverse events were reported in the two double blind RCTs.
CONCLUSIONS: The results of the three studies reviewed demonstrated that phlogenzym does have association with minimal osteoarthritis symptom reduction, but does not provide adequate statistical difference between the intervention and control.
Recommended Citation
Wood, Vanessa K., "Is Phlogenzym Effective in Reducing Moderate to Severe Osteoarthritis Pain in Adults?" (2013). PCOM Physician Assistant Studies Student Scholarship. 139.
https://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/pa_systematic_reviews/139