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Objective * Musculoskeletal injuries and inflammation are the most common indications for use of the multicomponent combination medication, Traumeel. This article reviews the clinical evidence for the safety and efficacy of Traumeel and discusses its use as an alternative to nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Methods * A systematic database search for pharmacological and clinical studies and case reports of Traumeel and its constituents in registered and unregistered indications was conducted. The immunomodulatory mode of action, safety, and efficacy of Traumeel was reviewed.
Results * Six randomized, controlled studies; 19 nonrandomized, controlled studies; four cohort studies; and numerous case reports investigating the different application forms of Traumeel (injection solution, tablets, drops, ointment, gel) were identified. Various preclinical and clinical investigations with the constituents were also found. Unlike conventional NSAIDs, Traumeel does not directly inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. It has antioxidative and immunomodulatory properties and appears to modulate arachidonic acid by decreasing the activity of phospholipase A2. Traumeel is reported to provide effective pain relief and reduce inflammation in patients with acute and subacute musculoskeletal disorders, physical trauma, and sport injuries. Successful treatment of hemarthrosis-related effusions and a reduction of joint pain associated with fibromyalgia was also demonstrated. Traumeel ointment reduced swelling and improved joint mobility in patients with sport-related ankle sprain. There is also evidence that Traumeel is of comparable efficacy to NSAIDs in the treatment of epicondylitis and tendinosis. Data from clinical studies and reports during more than 60 years of use in clinical practice support the excellent safety profile of Traumeel. The risk of hypersensitivity or allergic reactions is very low.
Conclusions * Rapid pain relief and antiinflammatory effects were observed in patients with acute or subacute musculoskeletal problems treated with Traumeel. Traumeel may be considered an effective and well-tolerated alternative to NSAIDs for the first-line treatment of physical trauma and sport injuries. (Altern Ther Health Med. 2011;17(2 Suppl):S18-S31)
The multicomponent combination medication, Traumeel (Biologische Heilmittel Heel GmbH, Germany) is widely used for physical trauma, sport injuries, and degenerative and immunological disorders. It contains L2 botanical and two mineral substances in micro- or ultra low-dilutions. Traumeel has pronounced analgesic, antiedematous, and antiexudative effects, and treatment results in rapid reduction of inflammation, pain relief, recovery from bruising, and healing promotion.
The clinical use of Traumeel...