Chinese Medicine for HIV
To respond to the human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic in China, the
integration of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM) has important implications in health outcomes, especially in China where
the use of TCM is widespread. The National Free TCM Pilot Program for HIV
Infected People began in 5 provinces (Henan, Hebei, Anhui, Hubei, and
Guangdong) in 2004, and quickly scaled up to 19 provinces, autonomous regions,
and municipalities in China including some places with high prevalence, 26,276
adults have been treated thus far. Usually, people with HIV infection seek TCM
for four main reasons: to enhance immune function, to treat symptoms, to
improve quality of life, and to reduce side effects related to medications.
Evidences from randomized controlled clinical trials suggested some
benefificial effects of use of traditional Chinese herbal medicine for HIV
infections and AIDS. More proofs from large, well-designed, rigorous trials is
needed to give fifirm support. Challenges include interaction between herbs and
antiretroviral drugs, stigma and discrimination. The Free TCM Program has made
considerable progress in providing the necessary alternative care and treatment
for HIV-infected people in China, and has strong government support for
continued improvement and expansion, establishing and improving a work
mechanism integrating Chinese and Western medicines.
Source: Zou W,
Wang J,
Liu Y.
Effect of
traditional chinese medicine for treating human immunodeficiency virus
infections and acquired immune deficiency syndrome: Boosting immune and
alleviating symptoms. Chin J Integr Med. 2015
Nov 17.
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