Xiaochaihu decoction for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a clinicopathologic syndrome characterized by excessive deposition of fat in hepatocytes except for alcohol and other specific hepatic factors. Xiaochaihu decoction (XD) has been widely used to treat NAFLD in China. However, there is no systematic review found. In order to evaluate the efficacy and safety of XD in the treatment of NAFLS, we need to conduct a meta-analysis and systematic evaluation. Methods: There are enrolled randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effectiveness and safety of XD in the treatment of NAFLD. Data come mainly from 4 Chinese databases (CNKI, CBM, Wanfang, and VIP Database) and 4 English databases (Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of science). The enrollment of RCTs is from the starting date of database establishment till September 30, 2021. The work such as selection of literature, data collection, quality evaluation of included literature, and assessment of publication bias will be conducted by 2 independent researchers. Meta-analysis will be performed by RevMan 5.0 software. Results: This study will provide high-quality evidence for the effectiveness and safety of XD in the treatment of NAFLD. Conclusion: The results of the study will help us determine whether XD can effectively treat NAFLD. Ethics and dissemination: This study does not require ethical approval. We will disseminate our findings by publishing results in a peer-reviewed journal.