Efficacy of Naoxueshu in acute spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: a multicenter observational study

Abstract

Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety outcome and related risk factors of Naoxueshu in the treatment of acute SICH. Methods Two hundred twenty patients were enrolled in this study. Diagnosis of SICH was based on neuroimaging. All the patients received regular treatment and Naoxueshu oral liquid 10 ml 3 times a day for 14 consecutive days. Surgical intervention was conducted as needed. Efficacy and safety outcomes were evaluated. Results Hematoma volume decreased significantly 7 days after Naoxueshu treatment (from 27.3 ± 20.0 to 15.1 ± 15.1 ml, P < 0.0001), and it decreased further in 14-day result (6.9 ± 10.4 ml, P < 0.0001). Patients’ neurological function was improved remarkably with NIHSS scores from baseline 13 points to 7-day 7 points (P < 0.0001) and 14-day 4 points (P < 0.0001). Cerebral edema was relieved only 14 days after Naoxueshu treatment (from 3 to 2 points, P < 0.0001). No clinically significant change was found in 7-day and 14-day safety results. Female sex was related independently to large 7-day hematoma volume and worse 7-day NIHSS score while it would not affect patients’ 14-day outcomes. Rare cause of SICH (B = 17.4, P = 0.009) alone was related to large 14-day hematoma volume. Worse baseline NIHSS score (B = 0.3, P = 0.003) and early use of Naoxueshu (B = 2.9, P = 0.005) were related to worse 7-day and14-day neurological function. Conclusion Naoxueshu oral liquid could relieve hematoma volume and cerebral edema safely; meanwhile, it could improve patients’ neurological function. Sex, cause of SICH, and time from onset to receive Naoxueshu should be taken into consideration in the treatment of SICH.