Transdermal Semen Strychni shows promise in treating aPAP

Transdermal Semen Strychni (SS) therapy appears to be a safe and effective treatment for patients with autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (aPAP), according to a presentation at the 2024 CHEST Annual Meeting.

The study demonstrated significant improvements in gas diffusion metrics and lipid profiles in patients receiving this treatment compared to a placebo.

In this randomized controlled trial, 32 patients with aPAP were enrolled and assigned to either the transdermal SS therapy group or a placebo group. Patients in the SS group received 40 mg of the extract 3 times a week for 24 weeks. The study was completed by 29 patients.

The primary endpoints evaluated were changes in the alveolar-arterial difference in oxygen concentration (A-aDo2) and the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO % predicted). Secondary outcomes included the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and lipid profile assessments.

There were significant improvements in gas diffusion among patients treated with transdermal SS. Specifically, the SS group exhibited a reduction in A-aDo2 of -6.57 mmHg compared to -3.75 mmHg in the placebo group (P = 0.008), and an increase in DLCO % predicted (-5.53% vs -2.34%, P = 0.001). In addition, the SS treatment group demonstrated a positive effect on lowering total cholesterol levels. No serious adverse events were reported.

Reference
Su M, et al. Transdermal Semen Strychni in adults with autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (aPAP): A randomised study. Poster presented at: 2024 CHEST Annual Meeting; October 6-9, 2024; Boston, MA.