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Oral vasodilators for primary Raynaud's phenomenon

Stewart M, Morling JR

The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2012

290 participants · 14 citations

Abstract

Background: Many different drugs have been suggested for the symptomatic treatment of primary Raynaud's phenomenon. Apart from calcium channel blockers, which are considered the drugs of choice, the evidence of the effects of alternative pharmacological treatments is limited. This is an update of a review first published in 2008.

Objectives: To assess the effects of various drugs with vasodilator actions on primary Raynaud's phenomenon.

Search methods: For this update the Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases Group Trials Search Co-ordinator searched the Specialised Register (last searched 14 May 2012), CENTRAL (Issue 4, 2012) and clinical trials databases. We contacted one pharmaceutical company and one trial author for additional information. In addition, the reference lists of relevant studies were searched for additional citations. There were no language restrictions.

Selection criteria: Randomised controlled trials evaluating the effects of oral formulations of any drug with vasodilator effects on subjective symptoms in primary Raynaud's phenomenon. Treatment with, or comparison with, calcium channel blockers was not assessed in this review.

Data collection and analysis: Two members of the review team independently assessed the trials for inclusion and their quality and extracted the data. Data extraction included adverse events. We contacted trial authors for missing data.

Main results: Eight studies involving 290 participants were included. Two trials examined the…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 290 participants or records.

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