El papel del similimum en la homeopatía / The role of Simillimum in homeopathy

Se ha confirmado que la composición química de Similimum en personas sanas es la misma que la de individuos enfermos. Este es el hallazgo más importante en apoyo de una interpretación termodinámica de la homeopatía y se basa en la curación de pacientes con similimum con respecto al equilibrio químico en personas enfermas. La composición química de similimum no es necesaria para un tratamiento en la homeopatía. Todo lo que se requiere es la misma composición química entre las dos moléculas objetivo. Conocer la composición química de las moléculas que causan enfermedades solo es relevante en el caso de buscar un compuesto que pueda actuar como un similimum

It has been confirmed that the chemical composition of Similimum in healthy people is the same as that in diseased individuals. This is the most important finding in support of a thermodynamic interpretation of homeopathy and is based on the healing of patients with Similimum regarding the chemical equilibrium in diseased people. The chemical composition of Simillimum is not required for a treatment in homeopathy. All that is required is the same chemical composition between the two target molecules. Knowing the chemical composition of disease-causing molecules is only relevant in the case of searching for a compound that could act as a Simillimum

Homeopatía: una breve descripción de esta especialidad médica / Homeopathy: a brief description of this medical specialty

La homeopatía es una forma de medicina con 200 años de historia. A lo largo de este tiempo, ha demostrado su capacidad para resolver problemas, a bajo costo, con un amplio alcance y con una aceptación social incuestionable. Según las estimaciones, aproximadamente 500 millones de personas utilizan la homeopatía en todo el mundo, lo que corresponde a alrededor del 7% de la población mundial. Sin embargo, aún existen obstáculos para su integración en la medicina convencional, los cuales deben ser puestos en perspectiva y eliminados. El propósito del presente artículo es contextualizar la homeopatía como una ciencia y un arte tanto en Brasil como en el resto del mundo. Analizamos algunos aspectos relevantes, como el perfil de sus usuarios, las razones para elegir la homeopatía, así como los contextos históricos y sociales para su inclusión en los sistemas educativos y de atención médica. Concluimos que la homeopatía es un sistema medico ético que ofrece un tratamiento sistémico y seguro a los pacientes, con una optima relación costo-beneficio. La homeopatía debe incluirse en las universidades, escuelas de medicina, así como en todos los niveles del sistema de atención médica, asegurando así su naturaleza histórica como especialidad médica.

Homeopathy is a medical approach with 200 years of history. Along this time it demonstrated its ability to solve problems, with low cost, broad scope and unquestionable social acceptance. According to estimates, approximately 500 million people use homeopathy worldwide, corresponding to about 7% of the world population. However, there are still hindrances to its integration into conventional medicine which need to be put into perspective and removed. The aim of the present article is to contextualize homeopathy as a science and an art in Brazil and worldwide. We analyzed some relevant aspects, such as the profile of users, their reasons to choose homeopathy, and historical and social contexts for the inclusion of homeopathy into health care and educational systems. We conclude that homeopathy is an ethical medical system that provides systemic and safe treatment to patients with optimal costbenefit ratio. Homeopathy should be included in universities, schools of medicine and at all levels of the healthcare system, thus ensuring its historical nature as a medical specialty.

La solidez de la investigación homeopática fundamental / The strength of fundamental homeopathic research

La investigación fundamental en homeopatía ha avanzado considerablemente en los últimos 20 años: desde estudios exploratorios con animales y plantas hasta la caracterización de los efectos sistémicos de los medicamentos homeopáticos y estudios in vitro con sistemas celulares aislados para evaluar los cambios en los mecanismos de adaptación celular y señalización intracelular frente a tratamientos homeopáticos variables. El número de artículos publicados a lo largo del tiempo ha permitido realizar varias revisiones sistemáticas. Recientemente, la demostración de que los medicamentos homeopáticos podrían modificar las funciones celulares a través de mecanismos epigenéticos (metilación y desmetilación de ADN) preparó el camino para un campo de investigación completamente nuevo. En paralelo, el descubrimiento de las nanopartículas y propiedades físicas específicas de las diluciones homeopáticas ha arrojado luz hacia un campo antes poco conocido, dado que se consideraba que las diluciones homeopáticas no consistían más que de agua. Así las cosas, los retos para el futuro conciernen a la demostración, o no, de la interrelación entre ambos fenómenos.

Fundamental research in homeopathy has much advanced in the past 20 years. From exploratory studies with animals and plants to the characterization of the systemic effects of homeopathic medicines and in vitro studies with isolated cell systems to assess changes in the mechanisms of cell adaptation and intracellular signaling facing variable homeopathic treatments. The amount of articles published over time enabled several systematic reviews. Recently, demonstration that homeopathic medicines might modify cell functions through epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation and demethylation) paved the road for a fully new field of research. In parallel, the discovery of nanoparticles and specific physical properties of homeopathic dilutions brought light to a previously poorly known field, as it was believed that homeopathic dilutions consist in nothing but water. Thus being, challenges for the future concern the demonstration, or not, of the interrelationship between both phenomena.

Efectos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas sobre los modelos in vitro: revisión de la literatura / Effects of high homeopathic dilutions on in vitro models: a review of the literature

Los efectos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas (HD, por sus siglas en inglés) son controvertidos debido a que superan el número de Avogadro. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión de la literatura sobre los efectos de las HD sobre los modelos in vitro. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en la base de datos PubMed de estudios que evaluaran las HD simples sobre modelos in vitro, publicados de 2007 en adelante. Resultados: 28 publicaciones cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión/exclusión. 26 estudios mostraron efectos evidentes de las HD simples sobre modelos in vitro. La mayor parte de tales estudios fueron realizados en países en donde la homeopatía ha alcanzado un alto nivel de institucionalización. Conclusiones: Los modelos in vitro evidencian de forma clara la actividad biológica de las HD superiores al número de Avogadro y dan cuenta de los efectos encontrados en la práctica clínica. La mayor parte de los estudios fueron realizados en países en donde la homeopatía es reconocida oficialmente, lo cual facilita el acceso a recursos para el desarrollo de la investigación.

the effects of homeopathic high dilutions (HDs) are controversial because they exceed Avogadro's number. Aim: to perform a literature review on the effects of HDs on in vitro models. Methods: a systematic search was performed in database PubMed for studies assessing simple HDs on in vitro models published from 2007 onward. Results: 28 publications met the inclusion/exclusion criteria; 26 studies demonstrated patent effects of simple HDs on in vitro models; most such studies were conducted in countries where homeopathy attained a high level of institutionalization. Conclusions: in vitro models patently evidence biological activity of HDs above Avogadro's number and account for effects found in clinical practice. Most studies were conducted in countries where homeopathy is officially recognized, which facilitates access to resources for the development of research.

¿Los medicamentos homeopáticos provocan agravación o efectos adversos dependientes de los fármacos? / Do homeopathic medicines cause aggravation or drug-dependent adverse effects?

La valoración crítica de la seguridad de los medicamentos homeopáticos se ha desarrollado recientemente. Esta cuestión es relevante para la toma de decisiones de los médicos, pacientes y dependencias regulatorias de fármacos. A pesar de la aparente inverosimilitud de la acción de los medicamentos homeopáticos debido a los procesos farmacotécnicos de la dilución y agitación empleados para su preparación, existen reportes en la literatura médica convencional sobre la toxicidad de los medicamentos homeopáticos, incluyendo eventos que aparentemente ponen en riesgo la vida. Las revisiones sistemáticas de estudios clínicos controlados aleatorizados muestran que los medicamentos homeopáticos provocan más efectos adversos que el placebo, aunque leves y transitorios. El establecimiento de un sistema de monitoreo en línea para la recolección de datos sobre los efectos adversos de los medicamentos homeopáticos, herbolarios o convencionales, es relevante para una evaluación no sesgada de la información reunida a partir de los consumidores y proveedores de atención médica.

Critical appraisal of the safety of homeopathic medicines developed recently. This matter is relevant for decision making by doctors, patients and drug regulatory agencies. Despite the apparent implausibility of the action of homeopathic medicines due to the pharmacotechnical processes of dilution and agitation used for their preparation, there are reports in the conventional medical literature on the toxicity of homeopathic medicines, including apparently life-threatening events. Systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials show that homeopathic medicines cause more adverse effects than placebo, albeit mild and transient. Establishing an online monitoring terapéusystem for collection of data on the adverse effects of homeopathic, herbal or conventional medicines is relevant for non-biased assessment of the information gathered from consumers and health care providers.

Bases científicas del principio de curación homeopática en la farmacología moderna / Scientific bases of the homeopathic healing principle in modern pharmacology

La homeopatía emplea el denominado 'principio de similares' como método terapéutico ­ el cual consiste en administrar medicamentos que provocan ciertos síntomas en individuos sanos para tratar síntomas similares en individuos enfermos (similia similibus curantur) - para inducir una reacción curativa secundaria del cuerpo en contra de sus propios trastornos. Esta reacción secundaria (vital, homeostática o paradójica) del cuerpo se basa en el 'efecto de rebote' de los fármacos modernos, un tipo de evento adverso que se produce después de interrumpir varias clases de fármacos prescritos según el 'principio de los contrarios' (contraria contrariis curantur). Objetivo: La presente revisión ha buscado justificar científicamente el principio de curación homeopática frente a la farmacología clínica y experimental a través de un estudio sistemático del efecto de rebote de los fármacos modernos o reacción paradójica del cuerpo. Métodos: Empleando como referencia estudios y revisiones sobre el tema publicados a partir de 1998, actualizamos los datos añadiendo estudios recientes incluidos en la base de datos PubMed. Resultados: El efecto de rebote se produce después de interrumpir varias clases de fármacos con acción contraria a los síntomas de las enfermedades, exacerbándolos a niveles superiores a aquellos previos al tratamiento. Independientemente de la enfermedad, fármaco, dosis y duración del tratamiento, el fenómeno del rebote se manifiesta en una pequeña proporción de los individuos susceptibles. Siguiendo las premisas homeopáticas, los fármacos modernos también podrían usarse según el principio de la similitud terapéutica, empleando entonces el efecto de rebote (reacción paradójica) con propósito curativo. Conclusiones: Evidenciado por cientos de estudios que constatan la similitud de conceptos y manifestaciones, el efecto de rebote de los fármacos modernos justifica científicamente el principio de la cura homeopática. Aunque el fenómeno de rebote es un evento adverso estudiado por la farmacología moderna, no es conocido por los profesionales de la atención médica, lo cual priva a los médicos de un conocimiento indispensable para el manejo seguro de los fármacos.

Homeopathy employs the so-called 'principle of similars' as therapeutic method - which consists in administering medicines that cause certain symptoms in healthy individuals to treat similar symptoms in sick individuals (similia similibus curantur) - to induce a secondary and healing reaction by the body against its own disorders. This secondary (vital, homeostatic or paradoxical) reaction of the body is based on the 'rebound effect' of modern drugs, a type of adverse event that occurs following discontinuation of several classes of drugs prescribed according to the 'principle of contraries' (contraria contrariis curantur). Aim: The present review sought to scientifically substantiate the homeopathic healing principle vis-à-vis experimental and clinical pharmacology through a systematic study of the rebound effect of modern drugs or paradoxical reaction of the body. Methods: Employing as reference studies and revisions on the subject published since 1998, we updated the data adding recent studies included in database PubMed. Results: The rebound effect occurs after discontinuation of several classes of drugs with action contrary to the symptoms of diseases, exacerbating them to levels above the ones before treatment. Regardless of disease, drug, dose and duration of treatment, the rebound phenomenon manifests in a small proportion of susceptible individuals. Following the homeopathic premises, modern drugs might also be used according to the principle of therapeutic similitude, thus employing the rebound effect (paradoxical reaction) with curative intent. Conclusions: Evidenced by hundreds of studies that attest to the similarity of concepts and manifestations, the rebound effect of modern drugs scientifically substantiates the principle of homeopathic cure. Although the rebound phenomenon is an adverse event studied by modern pharmacology, it is not known by health care professionals, thus depriving doctors of knowledge indispensable for safe management of drugs.

¿Los medicamentos homeopáticos inducen síntomas en voluntarios aparentemente sanos? Contribución brasileña al debate sobre los estudios patogénicos homeopáticos / Do homeopathic medicines induce symptoms in apparently healthy volunteers? Brazilian contribution to the debate on homeopathic pathogenic studies

La valoración crítica de la seguridad de los medicamentos homeopáticos se ha desarrollado recientemente. Esta cuestión es relevante para la toma de decisiones de los médicos, pacientes y dependencias regulatorias de fármacos. A pesar de la aparente inverosimilitud de la acción de los medicamentos homeopáticos debido a los procesos farmacotécnicos de la dilución y agitación empleados para su preparación, existen reportes en la literatura médica convencional sobre la toxicidad de los medicamentos homeopáticos, incluyendo eventos que aparentemente ponen en riesgo la vida. Las revisiones sistemáticas de estudios clínicos controlados aleatorizados muestran que los medicamentos homeopáticos provocan más efectos adversos que el placebo, aunque leves y transitorios. El establecimiento de un sistema de monitoreo en línea para la recolección de datos sobre los efectos adversos de los medicamentos homeopáticos, herbolarios o convencionales, es relevante para una evaluación no sesgada de la información reunida a partir de los consumidores y proveedores de atención médica.

Critical appraisal of the safety of homeopathic medicines developed recently. This matter is relevant for decision making by doctors, patients and drug regulatory agencies. Despite the apparent implausibility of the action of homeopathic medicines due to the pharmacotechnical processes of dilution and agitation used for their preparation, there are reports in the conventional medical literature on the toxicity of homeopathic medicines, including apparently life-threatening events. Systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials show that homeopathic medicines cause more adverse effects than placebo, albeit mild and transient. Establishing an online monitoring terapéusystem for collection of data on the adverse effects of homeopathic, herbal or conventional medicines is relevant for non-biased assessment of the information gathered from consumers and health care providers.

Efectos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas sobre las plantas: revisión de la literatura / Effects of high homeopathic dilutions on plants: a review of the literature

Entre los supuestos no convencionales de la homeopatía, el uso de medicamentos en diluciones altas (HD, por sus siglas en inglés) es una causa de objeciones y escepticismo entre la comunidad científica, formada dentro del paradigma de la dependencia de la dosis de la farmacología clásica. La investigación que busca evidenciar los efectos de las HD homeopáticas recurre a varios modelos experimentales (in vitro, plantas y animales). Objetivo: Describir los resultados de estudios con alta calidad metodológica que han demostrado los efectos positivos de las HD homeopáticas sobre las plantas. Métodos: Tomando como fuente de referencia las revisiones publicadas hasta 2015, actualizamos la información añadiendo datos de estudios recientes incluidos en la base de datos PubMed. Resultados: De los 167 estudios experimentales analizados, 48 cumplieron los criterios mínimos de calidad metodológica, de los cuales 29 detectaron efectos específicos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas sobre las plantas mediante la comparación con controles adecuados. Conclusiones: A pesar de que la mayor parte de los experimentos presentaba una calidad metodológica por debajo del estándar, los estudios que emplearon sistemáticamente reproducibilidad y controles negativos demostraron indiscutibles efectos significativos de las HD homeopáticas sobre las plantas.

Among the non-conventional assumptions of homeopathy, the use of medicines in high dilutions (HD) is a cause for objections and skepticism among the scientific community, trained within the dose-dependency paradigm of classic pharmacology. Research aiming at evidencing the effects of homeopathic HD has resource to several experimental models (in vitro, plants and animals). Aim: To describe the results of studies with high methodological quality that demonstrated positive effects of homeopathic HD on plants. Methods: Taking reviews published until 2015 as reference source, we updated the information through addition of data from recent studies included in database PubMed. Results: From 167 experimental studies analyzed, 48 met the minimum criteria of methodological quality, from which 29 detected specific effects of homeopathic high dilutions on plants through comparison to adequate controls. Conclusions: Despite the substandard methodological quality of most experiments, studies with systematic use of negative controls and reproducibility demonstrated significant indisputable effects of homeopathic HD on plants.

Estudio aleatorizado, doble ciego, sobre la eficacia del tratamiento homeopático en niños con amigdalitis recurrente / Randomized, double-blind study on the efficacy of homeopathic treatment in children with recurrent tonsillitis

La eficacia y seguridad del tratamiento homeopático fueron investigadas en niños con amigdalitis recurrente para la que se indicaba cirugía. Métodos: Estudio clínico prospectivo, aleatorizado, doble ciego, que incluyó 40 niños de entre 3 y 7 años de edad; 20 niños fueron tratados con medicación homeopática y otros 20 niños, con placebo. El seguimiento fue de 4 meses por niño. La evaluación de los resultados fue clínica mediante un cuestionario estándar y examen clínico el primer y último día de tratamiento. La amigdalitis recurrente se definió como ocurrencia de 5 a 7 episodios de amigdalitis bacteriana aguda al año. Resultados: Del grupo de 18 niños que completó el tratamiento homeopático, 14 no presentó episodio alguno de amigdalitis bacteriana aguda; del grupo de 15 niños que recibió placebo, 5 pacientes no presentaron amigdalitis. Esta diferencia fue estadísticamente significativa (p = 0,015). Ninguno de los pacientes presentó efectos secundarios. Conclusiones: El tratamiento homeopático fue efectivo en niños con amigdalitis recurrente, en comparación con el placebo; a 14 niños (78%) ya no se les indicó cirugía. El tratamiento homeopático no se asoció con eventos adversos.

The efficacy and safety of homeopathic treatment was investigated on children with recurrent tonsillitis justifying surgery. Methods: Prospective, randomized,double-blind clinical trial that included 40 children between ages of 3 to 7 years old;20 children were treated with homeopathic medication and 20 children with placebo. Follow up was 4 months per child. Assessment of results was clinical by means of a standard questionnaire and clinical examination on the first and last day of treatment.Recurrent tonsillitis was defined as 5 to 7 episodes of bacterial acute tonsillitis per year. Results: From the group of 18 children who completed homeopathic treatment, 14 did not present any episode of acute bacterial tonsillitis; from the group of 15 children whoreceived placebo 5 patients did not present tonsillitis; this difference was statistically significant (p= 0,015). None of the patient exhibited side effects. Conclusions: Homeopathic treatment was effective in children with recurrent tonsillitis compared to placebo, 14 children (78%) were no longer indicated surgery. Homeopathic treatment was not associated with adverse events.

Investigación clínica en homeopatía: revisiones sistemáticas y estudios clínicos aleatorizados / Clinical research in homeopathy: systematic reviews and randomized clinical trials

Se considera que las revisiones sistemáticas y estudios clínicos aleatorizados (RCT) presentan el nivel de evidencia más alto. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión descriptiva de las revisiones sistemáticas y estudios clínicos controlados aleatorizados (RCT, por sus siglas en inglés) sobre la efectividad y eficacia de la homeopatía. Métodos: Los datos del reporte publicado por la Liga Medicorum Homeopathica Internationalis (LMHI) en 2014 fueron actualizados mediante una búsqueda en la base de datos PubMed. Resultados: Se localizaron 7 revisiones sistemáticas con meta-análisis, 6 de las cuales concluyeron que los efectos de la homeopatía no son compatibles con el efecto placebo; sólo una revisión sistemática llegó a la conclusión opuesta, aunque fue severamente criticado debido a sus errores metodológicos. Un total de 19 RCT fueron publicados a lo largo del periodo analizado. El 84.2% tuvo por lo menos un resultado positivo. Conclusiones: Con base en las evidencias disponibles del más alto nivel, no es posible afirmar que los efectos de la homeopatía son exclusivamente un efecto placebo. Por el contrario, se han detectado efectos específicos en varios estudios.

Systematic reviews and randomized clinical trials (RCT) are considered to have the highest level of evidence. Aim: To perform a descriptive review of systematic reviews and RCT on the effectiveness and efficacy of homeopathy. Methods: Data from the report published by Liga Medicorum Homeopathica Internationalis (LMHI) in 2014 were updated by means on a search conducted in database PubMed. Results: 7 systematic reviews with meta-analysis were located, 6 of them concluded that the effects of homeopathy are not compatible with placebo effect; only 1 systematic review arrived to the opposite conclusion, but was severely criticized due to methodological flaws. A total of 19 RCT were published along the analyzed period; 84.2% had at least one positive outcome. Conclusions: Based on the available evidences of the highest level it is not possible to assert that the effects of homeopathic are exclusively placebo effect. On the opposite, specific effects were detected in several studies.

Formación médica en la terapéutica no convencional en el mundo (homeopatía y acupuntura) / Medical training in non-conventional therapeutics in the world (homeopathy and acupuncture)

Utilizadas de forma complementaria, alternada o integrada con la medicina convencional, la demanda de la población por las terapias no convencionales se ha incrementado considerablemente en las últimas décadas, requiriendo de los médicos un conocimiento de las nociones básicas de tales enfoques terapéuticos para orientar a sus pacientes en relación con tratamientos distintos a aquellos que suelen prescribir. Entre las mismas, la homeopatía y la acupuntura se han considerado especialidades médicas en Brasil durante varias décadas. Objetivo: Describir el estado actual de la formación médica en terapias no convencionales (homeopatía y acupuntura) alrededor del mundo. Métodos: Actualizamos los datos relacionados con los estudios y revisiones publicados hasta 2013 a través de una revisión de los estudios más recientes incluidos en la base de datos PubMed. Resultados: En todos los países, la enseñanza de terapias no convencionales se considera un tema relevante para la formación de médicos como una función del creciente interés de la población en su uso, con un amplia variedad de enfoques dirigidos a los estudiantes de licenciatura y posgrado, médicos residentes y profesionales con otras especialidades médicas. Conclusiones: Las escuelas brasileñas de medicina deben proporcionar a los estudiantes de licenciatura y posgrado, así como a los médicos residentes, un conocimiento preciso de los supuestos teóricos y enfoques clínico-terapéuticos propios de la homeopatía y la acupuntura, entre otras terapias no convencionales.

Used as complementary to, alternating or integrated with mainstream medicine, the population's demand for non-conventional therapies has substantially increased in the past decades, requiring from doctors knowledge on the basic notions of such therapeutics to orient their patients regarding treatments different to the ones they usually prescribe. Among them, homeopathy and acupuncture are considered medical specialties in Brazil for various decades. Aim: To describe the current state of medical education in non-conventional therapies (homeopathy and acupuncture) around the world. Methods: We updated data resulting from studies and reviews published until 2013 through a review of more recent studies included in database PubMed. Results: In all countries the teaching of non-conventional therapies is considered a relevant topic for the training of doctors as a function of the increasing interest of the population in their use, with a broad range of approaches targeting undergraduate and graduate students, medical residents and doctors from other medical specialties. Conclusions: The Brazilian medical schools must provide undergraduate and graduate students and medical residents accurate knowledge on the theoretical assumptions and clinical-therapeutic approaches proper to homeopathy and acupuncture, among other non-conventional therapies.

Estrógeno potenciado en el tratamiento homeopático del dolor pélvico asociado a endometriosis: un estudio aleatorizado, doble ciego, controlado con placebo, de 24 semanas / Potentiated estrogen in the homeopathic treatment of pelvic pain associated with endometriosis: a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Evaluar la eficacia y seguridad del estrógeno potenciado en comparación con el placebo en el tratamiento homeopático del dolor pélvico asociado a endometriosis (EAPP, por sus siglas en inglés). Diseño del estudio: El presente fue un estudio clínico aleatorizado, doble ciego, controlado con placebo, de 24 semanas, el cual incluyó a 50 mujeres de entre 18 y 45 años de edad con diagnóstico de endometriosis infiltrante profunda con base en ultrasonido transvaginal o imágenes de resonancia magnética después de preparación intestinal, así como puntaje ≥ 5 en una escala visual analógica (VAS: rango de 0 a 10 puntos) para el dolor pélvico asociado con la endometriosis. Se administró estrógeno potenciado (12cH, 18cH y 24cH) o placebo dos veces al día por vía oral. La medida principal de resultado fue el cambio en la severidad de los puntajes parcial y global de EAPP (VAS) de la línea basal a la semana 24, determinada como la diferencia en el puntaje medio de cinco modalidades de dolor pélvico crónico (dismenorrea, dispareunia profunda, dolor pélvico no cíclico, dolor intestinal cíclico y/o dolor urinario cíclico). Las medidas secundarias de resultado fueron la diferencia media de puntaje para la calidad de vida evaluada con el Cuestionario de Salud SF-36, los síntomas de depresión en el Inventario de la Depresión de Beck (BDI) y los síntomas de ansiedad en el Inventario de Ansiedad de Beck (BAI). Resultados: El puntaje global de EAPP (VAS: rango de 0 a 50 puntos) se redujo en 12.82 (p < 0.001) en el grupo tratado con estrógeno potenciado de la línea basal a la semana 24. El grupo que utilizó estrógeno potenciado también presentó una reducción en el puntaje parcial (VAS: rango de 0 a 10 puntos) en tres modalidades de EAPP: dismenorrea (3.28; p < 0.001), dolor pélvico no cíclico (2.71; p = 0.009) y dolor intestinal cíclico (3.40; p < 0.001). El grupo de placebo no mostró cambio significativo alguno en los puntajes global o parcial de EAPP. Además, el grupo de estrógeno potenciado mostró un mejoramiento significativo en tres de ocho ámbitos de SF-36 (dolor de cuerpo, vitalidad y salud mental) y síntomas de depresión (BDI). El grupo de placebo no mostró un mejoramiento significativo a este respecto. Estos resultados demuestran la superioridad del estrógeno potenciado sobre el placebo. Se asociaron pocos eventos adversos con el estrógeno potenciado. Conclusiones: El estrógeno potenciado (12cH, 18cH y 24cH) en dosis de 3 gotas dos veces al día durante 24 semanas fue significativamente más efectivo que el placebo para reducir el dolor pélvico asociado con la endometriosis. Registro del estudio clínico: ClinicalTrials.gov Identificador: https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT02427386.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of potentized estrogen compared to placebo in homeopathic treatment of endometriosis-associated pelvic pain (EAPP). Study design: The present was a 24-week, randomized, doubleblind, placebocontrolled trial that included 50 women aged 18-45 years old with diagnosis of deeply infiltrating endometriosis based on magnetic resonance imaging or transvaginal ultrasound after bowel preparation, and score ≥ 5 on a visual analogue scale (VAS: range 0 to 10 points) for endometriosis-associated pelvic pain. Potentized estrogen (12cH, 18cH and 24cH) or placebo was administered twice daily per oral route. The primary outcome measure was change in the severity of EAPP global and partial scores (VAS) from baseline to week 24, determined as the difference in the mean score of five modalities of chronic pelvic pain (dysmenorrhea, deep dyspareunia, non-cyclic pelvic pain, cyclic bowel pain and/or cyclic urinary pain). The secondary outcome measures were mean score difference for quality of life assessed with SF-36 Health Survey Questionnaire, depression symptoms on Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and anxiety symptoms on Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Results: The EAPP global score (VAS: range 0 to 50 points) decreased by 12.82 (p < 0.001) in the group treated with potentized estrogen from baseline to week 24. Group that used potentized estrogen also exhibited partial score (VAS: range 0 to 10 points) reduction in three EAPP modalities: dysmenorrhea (3.28; p < 0.001), non-cyclic pelvic pain (2.71; p = 0.009), and cyclic bowel pain (3.40; p < 0.001). Placebo group did not show any significant changes in EAPP global or partial scores. In addition, the potentized estrogen group showed significant improvement in three of eight SF-36 domains (bodily pain, vitality and mental health) and depression symptoms (BDI). Placebo group showed no significant improvement in this regard. These results demonstrate superiority of potentized estrogen over placebo. Few adverse events were associated with potentized estrogen. Conclusions: Potentized estrogen (12cH, 18cH and 24cH) at a dose of 3 drops twice daily for 24 weeks was significantly more effective than placebo for reducing endometriosis-associated pelvic pain.

Tratamento homeopatico na asma bronquica: relato de caso / Homeopathic treatment in bronchial asthma: case report

A Asma Brônquica é uma patologia de elevada prevalência e mortalidade, definida como uma doença inflamatória cronica das vias aéreas, caracterizada pela presença de broncoespasmo, inflamação da mucosa brônquica e hipersecreção brônquica decorrentes de hiper-reatividade pulmonar a diversos fatores. Clinicamente manifesta-se por episódios recorrentes de sibilância, dispneia e aperto no peito e tosse, ocorrendo mais pelo período noturno e manha. O tratamento é dividido em duas fases: tratamento do episódio agudo e tratamento de manutenção. Foi realizado um relato de caso no qual após uma anamnese detalhada na busca da individualização da paciente e da repertoriarão dos sintomas foi prescrito o medicamento homeopático Pulsatilla, associado ao tratamento convencional da asma. Observou-se uma melhora significativa do quadro clínico da paciente. Este relato de caso ressalta como a Homeopatia como proposta terapêutica coadjuvante pode contribuir para a diminuição das crises asmáticas recorrentes, assim como diminuir ou a retirada mais precoce das medicações de controle com melhora na qualidade de vida dos pacientes portadores de asma.

Bronchial Asthma is a pathology of high prevalence and mortality, defined as a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, characterized by the presence of bronchospasm, inflammation of the bronchial mucosa and bronchial hypersecretion resulting from pulmonary hyperreactivity to various factors. Clinically it is manifested by recurrent episodes of wheezing, dyspnea and chest tightness and coughing, occurring more at night and in the morning. Treatment is divided into two phases: treatment of the acute episode and maintenance treatment. A case report was carried out in which, after a detailed anamnesis in the search for the individualization of the patient and the repertoire of the symptoms, the homeopathic medicine Pulsatilla was prescribed, associated with the conventional treatment of asthma. There was a significant improvement in the patient's clinical status. This case report highlights how Homeopathy as an adjuvant therapeutic proposal can contribute to the reduction of recurrent asthmatic crises, as well as the reduction or earlier withdrawal of control medications with an improvement in the quality of life of patients with asthma.

O uso da homeopatia em TDAH: relato de caso / The use of homeopathy in ADHD: case report

Esse trabalho apresenta um relato de caso de uma criança com diagnóstico de Transtorno de Déficit de Atenção e Hiperatividade (TDAH) e intervenção com homeopatia. O objetivo é verificar eficácia da homeopatia para o TDAH. Concluiu-se que a intervenção com homeopatia apresentou resultados significativos no tratamento deste caso, como aumento da atenção e do rendimento escolar, diminuição dos comportamentos impulsivos, trazendo consequências positivas para o indivíduo e o seu relacionamento familiar.

This works presents a case report of a child diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and intervention with homeopathy. The objective is to verify the effectiveness of homeopathy for ADHD. It was concluded that the intervention with homeopathy showed significant results in the treatment of this case, such as increased attention and school performance, decreased impulsive behavior, bringing positive consequences for the individual and his family relationship.

Ceratodermia aquagênica: abordagem e tratamento homeopático: relato de caso / Aquagenic keratoderma: homeopathic approach and treatment: case report

"Homeopatia" é uma palavra de origem grega, introduzida por Hahnemann, onde homóis significa "semelhante" e pathos significa "sofrimento, doença". Considerado modelo terapêutico voltado ao indivíduo e não à doença. A relevância clínica da doença e o sucesso terapêutico motiva a realização do trabalho que relata um caso de paciente com distúrbio de pele raro, tratado com Sulphur e Petroleum. Os sintomas relatados pela paciente foram transformados em linguagem repertorial, elegendo-se as rubricas e respeitando as leis de hierarquização. O processo de repertorização ocorre de forma digital e com análise comparativa à matéria médica respeitando os processos de similitude. O sucesso da terapêutica pode ser observado pela evolução positiva da lesão descrita na queixa principal, e o reequilíbrio de sua homeostase, melhorando os aspectos emocional, físico e social.

"Homeopathy" is a word of Greek origin, introduced by Hahnemann, where homóis means "similar" and pathos means "suffering, disease". Considered a therapeutic model aimed at the individual and not the disease. The clinical relevance of the disease and the therapeutic success motivated the work that reports a case of a patient with a rare skin disorder, treated with Sulfur and Petroleum. The symptoms reported by the patient were transformed into repertory language, choosing the rubrics and respecting the hierarchical laws. The repertorization process takes place digitally and with comparative analysis to the materia medica respecting the similarity processes. The success of the therapy can be observed by the positive evolution of the lesion described in the main complaint, and the rebalancing of her vital energy, improving her emotional, physical and social aspects.

Alergias alimentares na infância: uma abordagem homeopática / Food allergies in childhood: a homeopathic approach

As alergias alimentares são condições muito frequentes dentre as queixas pediátricas, sendo a alergia às proteínas do leite de vaca (APLV) o tipo mais comum na infância. Apesar de sua prevalência, há controvérsias na literatura sobre o diagnóstico e o tratamento convencional. A Homeopatia oferece uma opção valiosa para a abordagem dessas patologias, uma vez que age conforme a totalidade sintomática característica de cada caso, isto é, de forma individualizada. O presente relato é sobre uma criança, do sexo masculino, com diagnóstico prévio de APLV, apresentando crises respiratórias frequentes e uso recorrente de antibióticos, além de estar submetido a uma dieta restrita. A mãe buscou tratamento homeopático como alternativa à terapêutica vigente, uma vez que os resultados obtidos até então eram pouco satisfatórios. O caso foi conduzido segundo os preceitos da homeopatia clássica hahnemanniana, com obtenção de um medicamento único segundo o método de repertorização. Optou-se pelo tratamento com o medicamento Lycopodium clavatum, considerado o mais semelhante segundo a individualidade do paciente. A criança foi acompanhada por pouco mais de um ano, observando-se melhora clínica importante da queixa inicial, além de mais qualidade de vida à criança e à família.

Food allergies are very common conditions amongst pediatric complaints, and cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is the most common kind in childhood. Despite its prevalence, there are controversies in the literature about diagnosis and conventional treatments. Homeopathy offers a valuable option for approaching these pathologies, since it acts according to the characteristic symptomatic totality of each case, that is, in an individualized way. This report is about a child, male, with a previous diagnosis of CMPA, with frequent respiratory crises and recurrent use of antibiotics, in addition to being submitted to a restricted diet. His mother looked for homeopathic treatment as an alternative to current therapy, since the results obtained so far were unsatisfactory. The case was conducted according to the precepts of classical Hahnemannian homeopathy, obtaining a single medicine according to the repertorization method. We opted for treatment with Lycopodium clavatum, considered the most similar according to the individuality of the patient. The child was followed up for a little over a year, and significant clinical improvement of the initial complaint was observed, in addition to better quality of life for the child and family.

Hemangioma infantil congênito: opção de tratamento homeopático com medicamento calcárea carbônica / Congenital infantile hemangioma: homeopathic treatment option with carbonic limestone medicine

Este é o relato de um caso clínico de uma criança lactente que a desde o nascimento possui uma tumefação de coloração vermelho-rubro na região occipital direita e outra na região infra escapular próxima a axila ipsilateral, de relevo e bordas irregulares. À avaliação médica, ficou com diagnóstico de hemangioma infantil. O hemangioma infantil é um tumor vascular benigno comum, representando a anomalia vascular mais frequentemente encontrada em idade pediátrica. O objetivo deste trabalho foi mostrar a ação do tratamento homeopático com a medicação Calcárea Carbônica como opção terapêutica com boa eficácia para o tratamento do hemangioma infantil.

The present document outlines the clinical case of an infant child who, since birth, has a reddish-red swelling in the right occipital region and another in the infrascapular area close to the ipsilateral armpit, with relief and irregular edges. Upon medical evaluation, she was diagnosed with infantile hemangioma. Infantile hemangioma is a common benign vascular tumour, representing the vascular anomaly most frequently found in children. This work aimed to show the action of homeopathic treatment with Calcárea Carbonica as a therapeutic option with good efficacy for the treatment of infantile hemangioma.

Uso da homeopatia em animais oncológicos / Use of homeopathy in animals oncological

O câncer é um dos maiores problemas de saúde nos animais e uma das principais causas de morte em cães e gatos, tornando-se cada vez mais frequente na clínica médica, principalmente em pacientes geriátricos. Tratamentos com menos efeitos adversos, objetivando melhor qualidade de vida e bem-estar físico e emocional, fazem com que o atendimento integrativo e complementar ao câncer cresça a cada dia, incluindo a homeopatia. Na oncologia, a homeopatia é usada de forma única ou complementar aos tratamentos convencionais, com inúmeros benefícios aos animais, contribuindo para redução dos efeitos colaterais dos antineoplásicos e dos sinais clínicos da doença. Além disso é um método de tratamento com pouco ou nenhum efeito colateral, seguro e eficaz, não é invasivo, a forma de administração é simples, altamente palatável, aumentando sua aceitação. Tem boa relação custo-benefício e a falta de um diagnóstico preciso, não representa um impedimento para iniciar o tratamento com os medicamentos homeopáticos. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho é explorar as evidências através de análise bibliográfica, dos benefícios da homeopatia na oncologia veterinária.

Cancer is one of the biggest health problems in animals and one of the main causes of death in dogs and cats, becoming increasingly common in clinical medicine, especially in geriatric patients. Treatments with fewer adverse effects, aiming at better quality of life and physical and emotional well-being, make integrative and complementary care for cancer grow every day, including homeopathy. In oncology, homeopathy is used alone or as a complement to traditional treatments, with many benefits to animals, hoping to reduce the side effects of antineoplastic drugs and the clinical signs of the disease. In addition, it is a treatment method with little or no side effects, safe and effective, it is not invasive, the form of administration is simple, highly palatable, increasing its acceptance. It has a good cost-benefit ratio and the lack of an accurate diagnosis does not represent an impediment to starting treatment with homeopathic medicines. Thus, the objective of this work is to explore, as proven through bibliographical analysis, the benefits of homeopathy in veterinary oncology.

O uso da homeopatia para o tratamento paliativo dos sintomas em cães e gatos com câncer / The use of homeopathy for the palliative treatment of symptoms in dogs and cats with cancer

Nos últimos tempos o interesse pelos cuidados paliativos na medicina humana vem aumentando, sendo o foco principal para melhorar a qualidade de vida de doentes e suas famílias. Considerando-se o desenvolvimento dos cuidados paliativos na medicina, a proximidade dos animais com a família e o aumento da longevidade dos mesmos há a necessidade de se olhar para os cuidados paliativos nos animais com mais atenção. A homeopatia é uma modalidade terapêutica que preza pelo olhar individual e sistêmico, considerando sintomas físicos, mentais e comportamentais. Estudando a possibilidade dos medicamentos homeopáticos melhorarem a qualidade de vida dos pacientes oncológicos, este trabalho visa fazer um levantamento de medicações homeopáticas a serem utilizadas durante o tratamento paliativo de cães e gatos com neoplasias.

In recent times, the interest in palliative care in human medicine has been increasing as to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Considering the development of palliative care in medicine, the proximity of animals to their families and their increased longevity, there is a need to look more closely at palliative care in animals. Homeopathy is a therapeutic modality that treats the patient as a whole, considering physical, mental and behavioral symptoms. Homeopathic medicines improve the patient's quality of life in cancer, therefore, the aim of this work is to list and describe the use of homeopathic remedies alongside with the palliative treatment of dogs and cats with cancer.

Homeopatia e espiritismo: de Hanemman a Kardec / Homeopathy and spiritism: from Hanemman to Kardec

No Brasil, a partir de 1979 a homeopatia passou a constar no Conselho de Especialidades Médicas da Associação Médica Brasileira e em 1980, do rol de especialidades do Conselho Federal de Medicina, deixando de fazer parte das medicinas alternativas e passando a constituir parte do que hoje se chama medicina integrativa. Na Medicina Veterinária foi a primeira especialidade a ser reconhecida pelo conselho Federal no ano de 2000. Porém, existe uma ligação da homeopatia com a doutrina espírita. Assim, a presente pesquisa possui como proposta compreender como se deu a evolução da doutrina espírita e das bases da homeopatia convencional e Veterinária como terapia alternativa de tratamento. Para isso possui como objetivo geral analisar a homeopatia e sua ligação com o espiritismo e a fé versus ciência, conceituar brevemente terapias alternativas e homeopatia, analisar o espiritismo de Kardec da França ao Brasil.Sugerir que o uso da Homeopatia é realmente eficiente no tratamento de patologias , usando para isso exemplos da Medicina Veterinária .Se usou de metodologia de revisão bibliográfica sobre o tema da homeopatia e sua ligação com o espiritismo, com abordagem qualitativa e procedimentos descritivos.

In Brazil, from 1979 onwards, homeopathy became part of the Council of Medical Specialties of the Brazilian Medical Association and, in 1980, of the list of specialties of the Federal Council of Medicine, ceasing to be part of alternative medicine and becoming part of what today It's called integrative medicine. In Veterinary Medicine, it was the first specialty to be recognized by the Federal Council in 2000. However, there is a connection between homeopathy and the spiritist doctrine. Thus, the present research proposes to understand how the evolution of the spiritist doctrine and the bases of conventional homeopathy and Veterinary medicine as an alternative treatment therapy took place. For this, it has the general objective of analyzing homeopathy and its connection with spiritism and faith versus science, briefly conceptualizing alternative therapies and homeopathy, analyzing Kardec's spiritism from France to Brazil. Demonstrating that the use of Homeopathy is really efficient in the treatment of pathologies, using examples from Veterinary Medicine. A bibliographic review methodology was used on the subject of homeopathy and its connection with spiritism, with a qualitative approach and descriptive procedures.