Banxia Xiexin tang for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: A protocol for a systematic review of controlled trials

BACKGROUND: Gastrooesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases encountered in clinical practice. The aim of the present study is thus to systematically review the literature, including Asian studies, to assess the efficacy and safety of Banxia Xiexin tang (BXT) for the treatment of GORD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Eleven databases will be searched for studies conducted through March 2018. We will include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of BXT as a treatment for GORD. All RCTs on BXT or related formulations will be included. The risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool, while confidence in the cumulative evidence will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and will also be disseminated electronically and in print. The review will be updated to inform and guide healthcare practices. REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42018087056