High-dose crataegus (Hawthorn) extract WS 1442 for the treatment of NYHA class II heart failure patients

The efficacy and tolerance of the standardized hawthorn (crataegus) extract WS 1442 were tested in a multicenter utilization observational study. We m onitored 1,011 patients with cardiac insufficiency stage NYHA II, treated w ith this extract (Crataegutt(R) novo 450, 1 tablet b.i.d.) over a period of 24 weeks. During and at the end of the observation period a significant im provement in clinical symptoms (reduced performance in the exercise toleran ce test, fatigue, palpitation and exercise dyspnea) was observed. Ankle ede ma and nocturia disappeared by 83%, and by half of the patients respectivel y manifesting these symptoms before treatment. The improvement and economiz ation of cardiac performance were additionally shown by a reduction in bloo d pressure, an increased maximal exercise tolerance and a reduction in the difference in the pressure/heart rate product (PHRP). The positive effects of WS 1442 were further demonstrated by an improved ejection fraction and a n increased percentile shortening fraction measured using M-mode echocardio graphy. The stabilizing effect of the hawthorn extract on the heart rate wa s shown by a slower rest pulse, as well as by an increase in the number of day and night normorhythmic patients, as documented by long-term ECC. The r eduction in the number of patients showing ST depressions, arrhythmias and ventricular extrasystoles at the maximum exercise level is regarded as an i ndication for an improved myocardial perfusion. Fourteen side effects were noted. In two cases (abdominal discomfort and fa cial pains accompanied by tachycardia) a possible relationship with the haw thorn therapy was postulated which however was considered unlikely by the t reating physcians. Almost 2/3 of the patients felt better or much better fo llowing the 24 weeks of treatment. More than 3/4 of the participating physi cians noted a good or a very good efficacy, and 98.7% noted a good or a ver y good tolerance. High-dose hawthorn therapy is an efficient, well-tolerate d and easily regulated therapeutic alternative for patients suffering from cardiac insufficiency stage NYHA II.