A systematic review ofHuangkui capsules for the treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome

WANG Dong-xue; ZHANG Xin-ru; HOU Ji-qiu; ZHU Da-sheng

Abstract：Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and safety ofHuangkui capsules for the treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome.Methods: The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aboutHuangkui capsules for refractory nephrotic syndrome were retrieved; the quality of those RCTs was evaluated. Meta-analysis of those studies was carried out by RevMan 5.2 statistical software. Results:A total of 9 RCTs were included, involving 571 patients. Results of meta-analysis showedHuangkui capsules could reduce 24 h urine protein [RR = 1.27, 95%CI(1.16, 1.40),P < 0.000 01]; elevate serum albumin [WMD = 2.43, 95%CI(1.15, 3.70),P = 0.000 2]; reduce blood cholesterol [WMD = – 1.96, 95%CI(– 3.86, – 0.05), P = 0.04]; reduce serum creatinine [WMD = – 10.10, 95%CI(– 17.01, – 3.19),P = 0.004]. Compared to the control group, there was no statistical significance on reducing triglyceride [WMD = – 0.10, 95%CI(– 0.88, 0.69),P = 0.81] and urea nitrogen [WMD = – 1.61, 95%CI(– 4.30, 1.08),P = 0.24] inHuangkui capsules group. There was no significant difference in adverse effects rate [RR = 0.94, 95%CI(0.73, 1.21),P = 0.64] between Huangkui capsules group and control group.Conclusion:According to the results of small sample RCTs, Huangkui capsules could reduce 24 h urine protein, blood cholesterol, serum creatinine, and improve serum albumin. Compared to control group,Huangkui capsules could not reduce triglyceride and urea nitrogen. There was no significant difference in adverse effects rate betweenHuangkui capsules group and control group. However, because of the low methodological quality of the trials enrolled in the study, the well-designed, large-scale and high-quality RCTs are required to confirm the conclusion.