Efficacy of Junchoto for Constipation and qi Stagnation in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Hemodialysis patients suffer from constipation, which often refractory. And they often realize anxieties over defecation urge during dialysis, or control of their body weight. Here we administered junchoto in the treatment of chronic severe constipation, and consideration of its therapeutic efficacy for constipation and for anxiety (qi stagnation). We prescribed junchoto 5.0 g or 7.5 g/day for 14 dialysis patients with chronic severe constipation regarded as a “Deficiency,” and evaluated response to constipation treatment with a constipation scoring system instrument, and Bristol Stool Chart. With a “qi stagnation score,” we also assessed improvement in qi stagnation. Median constipation scores significantly decreased from 14 to 4 after medication. Average Bristol Stool Chart scores significantly improved from 1.4 to 4.3. Median qi stagnation scores were significantly improved from 38 to 6. We believe that the Junchoto may be effective for chronic severe constipation in hemodialysis patients, who feel the improvements in qi stagnation (anxiety) with constipation.