Homeopathic vs conventional treatment of vertigo: a randomized double-blind controlled clinical study.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the efficacy and safety of a homeopathic remedy (Vertigoheel, Heel Inc, Albuquerque, NM) vs betahistine hydrochloride (active control) in the treatment of patients with vertigo of various origins in a confirmative equivalence trial.


METHODS
Randomized (1:1) double-blind controlled clinical trial.


METHODS
Fifteen study centers (general practice) in Germany between November 1995 and November 1996.


METHODS
A total of 119 patients with vertigo of various origins (from whom 105 patients could be analyzed as intended per protocol).


METHODS
Frequency, duration, and intensity of vertigo attacks.


RESULTS
Both homeopathic and conventional treatments showed a clinically relevant reduction in the mean frequency, duration, and intensity of the vertigo attacks. The therapeutic equivalence of the homeopathic remedy and betahistine was established statistically.


CONCLUSIONS
Concerning the main efficacy variable, therapeutic equivalence between the homeopathic remedy and betahistine could be shown with statistical significance (confirmative analysis). Both remedies reduced the frequency, duration, and intensity of vertigo attacks during a 6-week treatment period. Also, vertigo-specific complaints were significantly reduced in both treatment groups.
Biologische Heilmittel Heel GmbH, Baden-Baden, Germany. weiser.michael@heel.de
M
M
Weiser
W
W
Strösser
P
P
Klein
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001621:Betahistine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006705:Homeopathy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014665:Vasodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014717:Vertigo / Q000628:therapy*
D014665:Vasodilator Agents; D001621:Betahistine