Effectiveness and safety of Glycyrrhizae Decoction for Purging Stomach-Fire in Behcet disease patients: Study protocol for a randomized controlled and double-blinding trail

BACKGROUND: Behcet disease (BD) is a worldwide-occurred autoimmune disorder and currently lack of optional successful treatment. An ancient traditional Chinese medical formula called Glycyrrhizae Decoction for Purging Stomach-Fire (GDPSF) was recorded and nowadays has been observed to be effective for BD patients. However, the strict randomized controlled and double-blinding trail is needed to further assess this alternative medicine. METHODS: To ascertain the potential effects and safety of GDPSF for BD patients and to determine whether combination application of GDPSF and thalidomide could possibly reduce the side effects and increase effectiveness for BD management, we will conduct a randomized, double blind, controlled clinical trial. Patients enrolled will be randomly assigned into 3 groups: GDPSF group, thalidomide group, and integrative group (treated by both GDPSF and thalidomide). Participants will receive treatment for 6 months and accept a 12 months follow-up. Before and after treatment, clinical manifestations, blood tests, thalidomide dosage, remission levels, quality of life, and satisfactory levels will be assessed. The data of assessments on each group before and after treatments will be collected and analyzed through historical control, while between groups through intergroup control. Then statistical analysis will be applied to assess the effects and safety. DISCUSSION: This study protocol will assess the effects and safety of GDPSF for BD patients GDPSF. Combination application of GDPSF and thalidomide might be a new integrative medical method for BD patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Registry (ChiCTR-ONC-16009621) on Oct. 2016 http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=16395.