Effect of Coix Seed Extract on Muscle Cramps in Patients under Hemodialysis.

Abstract

Leg cramps are frequently seen in patients who are undergoing hemodialysis. Syakuyaku-kanzo-to is usually effective against leg cramps, but not for all patients. On the other hand, Yokuinin, coix seed, has been known to restrain spasms of the frame muscle. This paper reports on the effectiveness of Yokuinin in controlling leg cramps during hemodialysis-especially when Shakuyaku-kanzo-to is not effective. Tests were performed on nine patients who have had maintenance hemodialysis in our hospital, and whose leg cramps were not responsive to Syakuyaku-kanzo-to. The patients were provided with three to six tablets of Yokuinin (Yokuinin extract tablet “Kotaro”) a day, and the effect on their leg cramps was measured after three weeks. Yokuinin was effective on five patients, whose leg cramps disappeared (an efficacy rate of 55.6%). Side effects were not observed. These results suggest that Yokuinin is a useful medicine (as part of a treatment regimen of traditional medicine) for leg cramps that result from hemodialysis-especially with patients for whom Shakuyaku-kanzo-to is not effective.