The clinical efficacy of epalrestat combined with α-lipoic acid in diabetic peripheral neuropathy: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common long-term complication of diabetes mellitus, affecting patients in the world. Epalrestat combined with α-lipoic acid (ALA) is the most frequent combine therapy used in the DPN researches. We aim to assess the effectiveness and safety of epalrestat combined with ALA in patients with DPN, compare with epalrestat alone. METHODS: We will search Cochrane Library, PubMed, Wanfang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journals Database, and Chinese Biomedical Database from inception until October 31th, 2017. Inclusion the randomized controlled trials and clinical control trials of combine therapy which evaluate clinical efficacy and side effect in people with DPN. Data extraction and risk of bias assessments will be independently conducted by 2 reviewers. The primary outcome measures will be total effective rate, motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV), sensory nerve conduction velocity (SNCV), Toronto clinical scoring system (TCSS), and total symptom score (TSS). All statistical analyses will be performed using RevMan V.5.3 software. RESULTS: This review will evaluate the total effective rate, nerve conduction velocity, TCSS, TSS, and safety of ALA combined with epalrestat for patients with DPN, compare with epalrestat alone. CONCLUSION: Our study will provide evidence to assess whether epalrestat combined with ALA is an optional treatment for patients with DPN.