The effect of Hepar Magnesium D10 on fibromyalgia syndrome: A pilot study

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of the anthroposophic drug Hepar Magnesium D10 intravenously administered weekly on fibromyalgia symptoms. Methods: Forty-two patients attending their general practitioner for FM complaints were included by 18 general practitioners. Patients were asked to complete the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) at baseline, after five and ten weeks of treatment. Forty-one patients completed the FIQ at baseline and after five weeks. Thirty patients completed the FIQ at baseline and after ten weeks. Cohen's delta effect sizes were calculated for all FIQ items. Results: After five weeks, nine out of ten FIQ items demonstrated a statistically significant improvement. Cohen's delta effect size was small in two items, medium in seven items and large in one item. In nine FIQ items the mean improvement was at least 20%. After ten weeks seven FIQ items demonstrated a statistically significant improvement. Cohen's delta effect size was zero in one item, small in two items, medium in six items, and large in one item. In four FIQ items the mean improvement was at least 20%. Total FIQ score improved by at least 20% in 41.5% and 50% of patients after, five and ten weeks, respectively. Conclusion: There are clear indications that Hepar Magnesium D10 intravenously administered can have a positive effect on FM symptoms after five and ten weeks of treatment. There are indications that a large subgroup benefits from this treatment. A randomized controlled trial is indicated to study the effects of Hepar Magnesium on FM symptoms. (C) 2009 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.