AN EXPLORATORY SINGLE-ARM CLINICAL STUDY ON KAKTINDUK VATI AND MANSAYADI CHOORNA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF AHIPHENA VYASAN (OPIUM ADDICTION)
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Keywords
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Abstract
Opioid dependence, termed Ahiphena Vyasan in Ayurveda, represents a chronic neurobiological disorder with severe physical, psychological, and socioeconomic consequences. In Western Rajasthan, India, the challenge is acutely prevalent and culturally entrenched, with approximately 80% of the adult male population in districts like Jodhpur, Jalore, Pali, Barmer, and Jaisalmer reporting addiction to opium or its derivatives. The complex withdrawal syndrome, characterized by autonomic hyperactivity and profound discomfort, drives high relapse rates, highlighting the urgent need for safe, effective, and integrative therapeutic protocols.
- Aim
The objective of the present study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of a fixed-dose combined Ayurvedic regimen, consisting of Kaktinduk Vati and Mansayadi Choorna, in the management of withdrawal symptoms associated with Ahiphena Vyasan.
- Methods
A 28-day prospective, single-arm exploratory clinical trial (CTRI/2024/07/070011) was conducted at the Outpatient Department (OPD) of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University (DSRRAU), Jodhpur. A total of N=30 clinically diagnosed male patients (aged 16–60 years) exhibiting mild to moderate opioid withdrawal symptoms (Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale score 5–24) were enrolled. The intervention consisted of Kaktinduk Vati (2 Vati twice daily) and Mansayadi Choorna (4 g BD), administered orally after meals with normal water. The primary efficacy endpoint was the reduction in the total COWS score from baseline (BT) to after treatment (AT). Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test.
- Results
The treatment demonstrated an Extremely Significant reduction in the overall severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms (P<0.0001). The Total COWS score achieved 70.17% overall relief. Marked improvements were observed across various domains, particularly in autonomic hyper-reactivity, including Pupil Size (91.8% relief), Resting Pulse Rate (84.0% relief), and GI Upset (74.7% relief). Symptoms related to psychological distress and somatic pain, such as Bone/Joint Aches (70.0% relief), Yawning (70.4% relief), and Anxiety or Irritability (58.3% relief), also showed Extremely Significant improvement (P<0.0001). The therapy was well-tolerated, and no adverse reactions or significant changes in safety laboratory parameters were observed.
- Conclusion
The combined regimen of Kaktinduk Vati and Mansayadi Choorna provides a safe, highly acceptable, and effective Ayurvedic module for the management of the acute phase of opioid withdrawal. This approach successfully addresses the Vata Prakopa and Agni Mandya underlying the withdrawal syndrome, offering a valuable integrative pathway toward de-addiction and the enhancement of psychological stability (Satva).
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Dr.Mohit saini
PG Scholar, PG Dept. Of Agadtantra evum vidhi vaidhyka, Post Graduate Institute of Ayurveda, DSRRAU Jodhpur Rajasthan
Prof. (Dr.) Ritu Kapoor
Professor and HoD PG Dept. Of Agadtantra evum vidhi vaidhyka, Post Graduate Institute of Ayurveda, DSRRAU Jodhpur Rajasthan
Dr.Praveen Kumar
Associate Professor PG Dept. Of Agadtantra evum vidhi vaidhyka, Post Graduate Institute of Ayurveda, DSRRAU Jodhpur Rajasthan
Dr. Manoj Kumar Adlakha
Associate Professor PG Dept. Dravyaguna Vighyan, Post Graduate Institute of Ayurveda, DSRRAU Jodhpur Rajasthan