Clinical efficacy of a traditional J apanese (kampo) medicine for burning mouth syndrome

Aim At H okkaido U niversity H ospital, selective serotonin re‐uptake inhibitors ( SSRI ) or serotonin and norepinephrine re‐uptake inhibitors ( SNRI ) are the first‐line medications for burning mouth syndrome ( BMS ). Occasionally, when standard SSRI / SNRI are deemed inappropriate because of certain side‐effects, treatment incompatibility, age concerns, or doctor discretion, a kampo medicine called rikkosan can be used. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of rikkosan for BMS . Methods This retrospective study included 48 patients (four men, 44 women; mean age, 70 years) who were diagnosed with BMS in the present department between 2006 and 2014. Only patients who received rikkosan (7.5 g/day) for >4 weeks were included. Patients who were taking other medicines for BMS were excluded. Pain was assessed using a visual analog scale. Results Improvement was seen in 54% of patients (26/48). Conclusion Rikkosan is an effective alternative treatment for BMS .