EFFECTS OF THE ORIENTAL MEDICAL PRESCRIPTION WEN-PI-TANG IN PATIENTS RECEIVING DIALYSIS

Hemodialysis patients were treated with Wen-Pi-Tang (a type of traditi onal Chinese (Kampo)-prescription) for 8 weeks, and the changes in act ive oxygen production by neutrophils, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activ ity, methylguanidine (MG)/creatinine (Cr) ratio, blood chemistry and s ubjective symptoms were examined. A decrease in active oxygen producti on by neutrophils was observed in patients with and without phorbol my ristate acetate stimulation. SOD activity and MG/Cr ratio were also re duced by the treatment. In addition, coldness of the limbs, constipati on and easy fatigability were improved by Wen-Pi-Tang administration.