Efficacy of Pippali in vardhamana and fixed dosage pattern in primary hypothyroidism – A randomized clinical trial

INTRODUCTION: Hypothyroidism is an endocrine condition. The signs and symptoms of Hypothyroidism match with the descriptions of several conditions like Vataja Shotha, Rasa Pradoshaja Vikara or a disorder Agni. In the current study two different dosage forms i.e., Vardhamana (Increasing & Decreasing pattern) and fixed Dosage to evaluate its efficacy on Primary Hypothyroidism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 40 patients randomized into two groups Escalating and Fixed were administered Vardhamana Pippali in two dosage forms for 19 days. Serum T(3,) T(4,) and TSH were assessed at baseline and on the 20th day along with the assessment of clinical score through Zulewskis's clinical score for measuring tissue hypothyroidism. The total pippali administered in both groups was 69 g. RESULTS: The mean levels of TSH were 9.52 ± 3.97 mIU/ml, 10 ± 6.02 mIU/ml, and 10.21 ± 8.49 mIU/ml at baseline, 20th day and 40th day respectively in group A. In group B it was 9.21 ± 3.72 mIU/ml, 8.23 ± 4.62 mIU/ml, and 9.15 ± 4.67 mIU/ml at baseline, 20th day and 40th day respectively. The mean Zulewski's clinical score was 3.67 ± 1.49, 2.28 ± 1.32, and 2.06 ± 1.25 at baseline, 20th day, and 40th day respectively in Escalating group. In Fixed group it was 3.83 ± 1.20, 2.50 ± 1.42, and 3.44 ± 1.33 at baseline, 20th day, and 40th day respectively. DISCUSSION: Zulewski's clinical scores were statically non-significant in both the groups on the 20th-day respectively, suggesting minimal efficacy of the interventions. But subjects administered with Vardhamana Pippali exhibited better long-lasting effects suggesting sustained effects of the drug. CONCLUSION: Pippali is efficacious in reducing the signs and symptoms of Primary Hypothyroidism and also has a positive impact on the Thyroid profile but is more effective when administered in Vardhamana dosage compared to fixed dose.