| Description: |
Padma 28 is a complex herbal mixture that was developed by two physicians in Russia in the late 19th century. It is composed of more than 20 different herbs. There is very limited published information about Padma 28. It is sometimes claimed to be an effective therapy for MS and several other conditions. |
| Rationale: |
Padma 28 may mildly suppress the immune system and produce antioxidant effects. Both of these actions could be therapeutic in MS. |
| Evaluation: |
Padma 28 has undergone limited study in MS. In one study of the animal model of MS, Padma 28 increased the survival time and decreased the death rate. In one published study of 100 people with MS, those who received Padma 28 treatment had a less severe clinical course than those who did not receive the herbal mixture. However, there are significant shortcomings of this study, including the lack of a placebo-treated group, the use of an unconventional neurological rating scale, and the lack of important clinical criteria for people who were in the study. |
| Risks: |
There is no published information about whether long-term use is safe. In the study of people with MS, no side-effects were reported. |
| Costs: |
Padma 28 is of low-moderate cost. |
| Committee opinion: |
In the opinion of the Committee, Padma 28 is of low-moderate cost and of unknown safety in MS. Although one clinical study found beneficial effects in MS, more rigorous studies are needed to determine if it is a safe or effective MS therapy. |
