Reduction of viral load in patients with acute sore throats: Results from an observational clinical trial with Echinacea/Salvia lozenges

Introduction Acute tonsillopharyngitis or sore throat is an initial and frequent sign of respiratory tract infections and represents an optimal occasion for early and effective antiviral treatment.

Aim This study investigated safety and efficacy of Echinacea purpurea/Salvia officinalis lozenges on acute sore throat symptoms and the viral load in infected patients.

Method 74 patients (13–69 years) with acute sore throat symptoms (<48 h) were treated with 5 lozenges per day (each containing: 800 mg Echinaforce^®​ extract and 379 mg Salvia officinalis fresh herb extract [A.Vogel AG, Switzerland]) for 4 days. Symptom intensities were recorded in a diary and oropharyngeal swab samples collected for virus detection and quantification via RT-qPCR.

Results 98.6% of patents rated the tolerability as (very-) good, no complicated RTI developed and no antibiotic treatment was required (0%). Taking a single lozenge reduced throat pain by 48% (p<0.001) and tonsillopharyngitis symptoms by 34% (p<0.001). 24.3% of patients tested virus positive. Viral loads were reduced by 62% (p<0.03) after taking a single lozenge and by 96% (p<0.02) after 4 days of treatment compared to pretreatment.

Conclusion Echinacea/Salvia lozenges represent a valuable and safe option for the early treatment of acute sore throats, effective in reducing symptoms and viral loads in the throat.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
13. Juni 2022