New approach in asthma treatment using excitatory modulator.

The impact of a herbal extract with excitatory modulator activity in the management of asthma was studied. An open and selective 3-year follow-up of 14 chronic refractory asthmatics aged between 22 and 70 was used. Participants received an extract of Sophora flavescens Ait. Medication use, a diary card of symptoms and respiratory function were recorded. The study was retrospective and all patients gave written informed consent. The quality of life, clinical symptoms and respiratory function improved during all periods of measurement. The use of inhaled corticosteroid and beta-agonists were reduced or eliminated. There were no significant adverse reactions reported. Therefore the extract of S. flavescens as an excitatory modulator appears to be a safe and may be an effective alternative treatment for refractory chronic asthma. (c) 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.