The Society of Homeopaths, the UKís largest register of professional homeopaths, opposes the call from Sense About Science Chair, Lord Taverne, to annul the latest regulations for labelling homeopathic products (House of Lords, 26th October, 2006).
Chief Executive, Paula Ross, commented, ìwith over £25 million spent each year on homeopathy, this directive from the MHRA, which came into effect on 1st September 2006, will actually improve consumer information and therefore patient choice for over the counter homeopathic products available for minor, acute conditions.î
This regulation brings the UK in line with European policy.
For long term and more serious conditions or symptoms lasting more than 7 days, The Society strongly recommends consulting a qualified and registered homeopath or healthcare practitioner.
Registered members of The Society of Homeopaths have graduated from a recognised college, are fully insured and practise in accordance with a strict Code of Ethics & Practice. A copy of the register is available on www.homeopathy-soh.org.
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Notes to Editors
In 2004, public expenditure on over-the-counter homeopathic remedies was around £25.5 million with some 470,000 Britons buying them; 25% more than in 1996 (PR Week,12 Dec 2005)
The market is set to grow by between 15 and 20 per cent annually, according to The Faculty of Homeopathy (Homeopathy: testing the water. Healthy Magazine July 2003)
The Society of Homeopaths
The Society of Homeopaths is the largest body of professional homeopaths in the UK. Established in 1978, it has over 1,300 registered members.
For further details, please contact Pamela Stevens, Communications Department on 0845 450 6611 or info@homeopathy-soh.org
NEWS RELEASE 31.8.06
REGULATION OF HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES A BOOST FOR CONSUMERS
The Society of Homeopaths recognises the need for appropriate regulation of homeopathic products, in order to protect patients and consumers, and welcomes the implementation of the National Rules Scheme for homeopathic medicines.
The National Rules Scheme of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which comes into force tomorrow, allows the inclusion of therapeutic indications on the packaging of over the counter (OTC) homeopathic medicines.
Therapeutic indications on labels will make it easier for the public to self-select OTC homeopathic remedies and may encourage new consumers to try them. The range of indications will be limited to minor, self-limiting conditions such as travel sickness, minor skin conditions, hay fever, and muscular pain and stiffness. It will exclude serious diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Melanie Oxley, Communications Manager, said,
ìThis is an excellent move, adding to patient choice. Therapeutic indications will give homeopathy more credibility as a safe and natural complement to orthodox medicine and will rid homeopathic remedies of the stigma of being difficult to understand. We welcome the recognition of the value of safe traditional use and the experience of practitioners.î
The Society of Homeopaths is committed to playing its part in delivering a stronger and more appropriate evidence base for the safety and efficacy of homeopathy.
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Notes:
1. The Society of Homeopaths is the largest body of professional homeopaths in the UK. Established in 1978, we have over 1,300 members on our register.
2. The National Rules Scheme of the MHRA comes from Article 16.2 of the European Medicines Directive (2001/83/EC. On 21 June the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) published a Consultation letter (MLX 312: Licensing of homeopathics: proposals for a new National Rules Scheme, for a review of product licences of right and to expand the remit of the advisory board on the registration of homeopathic products (ABRH)). The consultative period closed on 12 September 2005. For further details on the consultative paper visit www.mhra.gov.uk.
3. For further information please contact: Pamela Stevens on 0845 450 6611 or Felicity Lee on 029 2056 8786
The Newspaper for leaders in Primary Care (July/August 2006)
Published article by Melanie Oxley
IMPLAUSIBLE CLAIMS AGAINST HOMEOPATHY
In a letter to Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) in May, Professor Michael Baum and 12 other leading scientists claimed “homeopathy is an implausible treatment for which over a dozen systematic reviews have failed to produce convincing evidence of effectiveness” and they urged PCTs to refrain from commissioning homeopathy. (1) It is likely they based their claim on the widely publicized meta-analysis conducted by Swiss sociologists that appeared in The Lancet last August (Shang et al), which concluded that homeopathy is no more effective than placebo. (2)
The Swiss researchers drew their conclusions from only 8 trials of homeopathy and 6 trials of conventional drugs. It appears that not one of the 8 homeopathy trials involved individualized prescribing, as practised by the vast majority of homeopaths in the real world.
The conclusion that homeopathy is no more than placebo cannot be reached on the basis of this study and as the authors were transparent in their dislike of homeopathy, it is not unreasonable to assume a large degree of bias. Meta-analyses are tools akin to public surveys and are of limited value. Homeopathy is a science in which individualization of prescription is a fundamental aspect.
It is always going to be difficult to adopt a reductionist research method such as the randomized controlled trial (RCT) to measure effects of complex interventions such as homeopathy. Currently researchers at Sheffield University are developing new and rigorous research models that will better fit the homeopathic intervention in all its aspects.
Better evidence from the real world
A significant piece of research was published in September 2005, clearly demonstrating that homeopathy is effective in the treatment for a wide range of illness. (3) This was a large study of the outcomes from 6,500 patients at the Bristol Homeopathic Hospital over a period of six years, in which 70% reported improvement in their symptoms and wellbeing.
A wide range of chronic diseases were treated successfully with individualized homeopathy, including eczema, asthma, migraine, irritable bowel syndrome, menopausal problems, arthritis, depression and chronic fatigue syndrome. The most marked improvements were seen in children - 89% of under 16s with asthma reported improvement and 75% felt 'better' or 'much better', as did 68% of eczema patients under 16. The patients were referred by their GP or hospital specialist - most had tried conventional treatment first without success.
This was a blatantly unblinded study in a real-world setting: the large size of the sample lends power to its’ findings.
In fact more than 20 meta-analyses have found that homeopathy has an action in the patient above and beyond placebo, when research that takes into account the unique aspects of homeopathic treatment, has been included. (4)
Homeopathy is an individual treatment
If there are over 30 different homeopathic remedies for symptoms of hayfever, how can the same one be applied to everyone with “hayfever” with an expectation of success? The research models employed to test homeopathy must reflect the salient elements of treatment, not simply test the remedy. Research methods chosen must be those most appropriate to demonstrate any benefits or risks. RCTs are looking for specific effects, whereas homeopathy aims to produce general health effects as well as specific effects – homeopathy treats the whole person.
In her paper, “Placebo-controlled trials in CAM” Dr. Elaine Weatherley-Jones concludes, “It is time to halt the misguided task of conducting placebo-controlled RCTs to test the efficacy of individualized treatments; to redirect our energies to analyses of whole-systems healthcare and to design more relevant pragmatic studies of comparative effectiveness”. (5)
Homeopathic treatment for NHS patients
Such studies are already underway in the NHS, where homeopathy is offered as a choice for a limited range of diagnoses. Homeopaths involved in such projects deliver a cost-effective service and are engaged in both audit and outcomes analysis.
An NHS Community Menopause/PMS clinic in Sheffield, which started its homeopathy service in 1998, has conducted its’ second outcome review using a validated outcome measure. (6) The new findings report high levels of benefit in menopausal symptoms, as well as improved mood and quality of life, following homeopathic treatment. The greatest benefit was experienced for hot flushes, headaches, joint problems, emotional and psychological problems and fatigue.
Homeopathy has a role in the treatment of mild and moderate depression: in a national survey conducted by The Society of Homeopaths, 87% of patients who complained of mental and emotional problems reported positive change. (7) Waltham Forest PCT has successfully integrated homeopathy into a Mental Health Strategy. This work recently won the NHS Alliance Acorn Award. (8)
Impact Integrated Medicine Project in Nottingham, funded by New Deal for Communities, was set up in 2004 in response to calls from residents for access to a wider choice of treatment. Impact’s team has treated 235 patients so far with a further 120 on the waiting list. Patients with musculo-skeletal conditions, chronic pain and psychological conditions were amongst those who have benefited the most. (9)
Impact’s work has also had an effect on other parts of the NHS – including reducing the amount that patients need to see their GP, and enabling patients to cut back on prescribed medication. Two patients no longer require surgery after successful treatment at the project.
Patients choose homeopathy; doctors welcome it
The letter from Professor Baum questioned whether complementary medicine should be provided on the NHS and ignored the fact that 70% of GPs feel complementary medicine should be freely available. (10) Research at Glasgow University showed a very high demand for training by medical students, suggesting that this trend will increase further (11) and the proposed curriculum for an undergraduate familiarisation course was adopted by the British Medical Association’s report. (12)
Access to CAM should be a matter of choice for individuals and The Society of Homeopaths firmly supports the Government’s agenda of patient choice. The Minister of State, Lord Warner, confirmed this in June 2006, “ Decisions on the commissioning of complementary and alternative therapies, including homeopathy, on the NHS are a matter for primary care trusts and local NHS service providers. The Government consider that decision-making on individual clinical interventions, whether conventional, or complementary or alternative treatments, is a local matter”. (13) One in four members of the public who want to see complementary medicine on the NHS. (14)
What has been borne out in practice is that homeopathy is safe, has an acceptable evidence-base across a useful list of ailments, is cheap and patients want it.
Integration is the answer
Christopher Smallwood, whose study was commissioned by the Prince of Wales. (15) came to the conclusion that homeopathy could be relatively easily integrated into the NHS. His report showed the benefit of homeopathy, in improving conditions such as anxiety, stress and depression as well as offering potentially significant cost savings to the NHS. His evidence also indicated fewer adverse effects from homeopathy than conventional medicines and a reduced need for follow up appointments.
References:
1 Letter to PCTs from Prof Michael Baum entitled, “Re: use of ‘alternative’ medicine in the NHS’.
2. Shang et al, Are the clinical effects of homeopathy placebo effects? (Lancet 2005;366 (9487):726-733)
3. Spence D S, Thompson E A and Barron S J. Homeopathic Treatment for Chronic Disease: A 6-Year, University-Hospital Outpatient Observational Study. J. Altern. Complement. Med. 2005; 11(5): 793-398
4. See The Society of Homeopaths website, Research
5.Weatherley-Jones E, Thompson E A, Thomas K J, The placebo-controlled trial as a test of complementary and alternative medicine: observations from research experience of individualized homeopathic treatment; Homeopathy (2004) 93, 186-189
6.Relton C,Weatherley-Jones E. Homeopathy service in a National Health Service community menopause clinic: audit of clinical outcomes. Journal of the British Menopause Society 2005 May
7. The Society’s National Service Evaluation is awaiting publication.
8.Josephine O’Gorman RSHom provides homeopathy at Waltham Forest PCT: 0794 100 2250 email: josephine.o’gorman@wf-pct.nhs.uk
9.IMPACT Integrated Medicine Project Annual Report 2005 www.impact-imp.co.uk
10.GP Magazine, November 2004
11.Halliday J, et al. Medical students and complementary medicine. Complementary Therapies in Medicine 1993;1,Suppl 1:32-33
12.British Medical Association. Complementary Medicine: new approaches to good practice. OUP 1993
13. Hansard House of Lords, 13.6.06
14. Which? Survey 2003
15. The Role of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the NHS led by Christopher Smallwood, October 2005
The Society of Homeopaths strongly rejects the unfounded assertion by Professor Michael Baum et al that homeopathy is an implausible treatment for which over a dozen systematic reviews have failed to produce convincing evidence of effectiveness.(1)
In fact, there is considerable evidence to show that homeopathy is effective in the treatment of a wide range of illnesses, including a large study at the end of 2005, of the outcomes from 6,500 patients at the Bristol Homeopathic Hospital, over a period of six years, in which 75% reported improvement. (2)
Furthermore, findings from The Society’s National Service Evaluation, led by its Research Committee, indicate equally excellent outcomes. Clare Relton RSHom, Chair of The Society of Homeopaths’ Research Committee, said: “We are certain that homeopathic treatment is a safe and cost-effective option for NHS patients with a wide range of health concerns. Our preliminary findings support this view.”(3)
In questioning the provision of Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) on the NHS, Baum et al ignore the fact that 70% of GPs feel complementary medicine should be freely available on the NHS (4) and that substantial savings could be made by introducing homeopathy into general practice. (5)
Access to CAM should be a matter of choice for individuals and The Society of Homeopaths firmly supports the Government’s agenda of patient choice. In describing homeopathy as an ’implausible treatment’, Baum et al patronise the one in four members of the public who want to see complementary medicine on the NHS(6) .
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Note to Editors
1 Letter to PCTs from Prof Michael Baum entitled, Re: use of alternative medicine in the NHS.
2 Homeopathic treatment for chronic disease: a six-year University-Hospital Outpatient Observational Study. Dr. D.S Spence, Dr. E A Thompson & S J Barron. J. Altern. Complement. Med. 2005; 11:5:793-798
3 Clare Relton RSHom, University of Sheffield SCHARR 0114 2680691 / mobile 07879 872892
4 GP Magazine, November 2004
5 The Role of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the NHS led by Christopher Smallwood, October 2005
6 Which? Survey 2003
The Society of Homeopaths is the largest body of professional homeopaths in the UK. Established in 1978, we have over 2,500 members. Our Registered Members have graduated from a recognised college, are fully insured and practise in accordance with our strict Code of Ethics & Practice.
For further details, please contact Pamela Stevens on pamela_stevens@homeopathy-soh.org or phone 0845 450 6611.
We all look forward to the summer - sunshine, school holidays, rest and relaxation. But the summer can bring its own problems and stresses with it. Homeopathy can help keep you healthy over the summer, making life easier for all the family.
From travel sickness and holiday accidents(2) to common summer ailments such as hayfever(3) there are hundreds of homeopathic remedies you can buy for the everyday stuff that causes you stress in the summer. Members of The Society of Homeopaths(1) will be in-store to help during Homeopathy Awareness Week.(5)
Geoff Johnson, a vet from Somerset, was so impressed by homeopathic treatment of his hayfever whilst at a pop festival, that he has become a true convert and is now a homeopathic vet!(6)
With homeopathy you know you are using natural medicines that work with your body, provide gentle relief and are safe for use by all the family, and safe to use with other medication. Homeopathy is different from conventional medicines - it works in a different way. It works with you, not against you. It’s natural and safe, with no known side-effects.
Homeopathy can help strengthen the immune system and restore good mental and physical health, but you will need to see a registered homeopath. To find a good homeopath consult the Register of the Society of Homeopaths.
All you need for a happy, healthy summer – Homeopathy
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Notes for editors
1. The Society of Homeopaths is the largest body of professional homeopaths in the UK. Established in 1978, we have over 1,300 members on our register.
We can provide case studies showing the benefit of homeopathy in the treatment of a wide range of conditions plus interviews with the key personnel.
For further details, please contact Melanie or Pamela in the Communications Department on 0845 450 6611 or info@homeopathy-soh.org
2. Common holiday remedies:
Travel sickness? Nux-vomica 30c for dizziness with nausea or Ipecac 30c for deathly nausea and vomiting
Fear of flying? Aconite 30c, before you leave and on the day you fly
Prone to jet-lag? Arnica 30c on the day you fly and when you get home
Sun-burn & high temperatures? Belladonna 30c and a calendula-based cream
Food-poisoning? Arsenicum 30c and drink plenty of water
Nasty bites and stings? Apis 30c and a cold compress
Sprains, twists and other accidents? Arnica 30c first, then Ruta-grav 6c to follow
Prickly heat – Nat mur 6c or Pulsatilla 6c and a calendula-based cream
3. Seasonal allergies and hayfever:
Homeopathy can help with chronic illness such as allergies and has a good track record in this area. The following remedies can help the symptoms:
Streaming sore nose, drips like a tap? Nat-mur 6c six times a day
Sneezing worse indoors and better outdoors, with a stuffed up nose? Pulsatilla 6c six times a day
Hot burning and swollen eyes? Allium-cepa 6c six times a day
Sore, red eyes? Euphrasia 6c six times a day and a poultice of Euphrasia tincture
5. HOMEOPATHY AWARENESS WEEK, now in its 6th year, is a partnership between The Society of Homeopaths, the largest organisation representing professional homeopaths, and Nelsons, the leading manufacturer of natural medicines in the UK.
From 14-21 June, the nationwide campaign will explain to the public how homeopathy can help with everyday health problems. The campaign will focus on information and in-store advice by registered homeopaths through Nelsons’ network of leading retail outlets. Participating stores are: Holland & Baratt, Lloyds Chemists and independent health-shops and pharmacies nationwide.
6. Geoff Johnson MRCVS. Available for interview on 01984 624999.
7. We have hayfever and travel-sickness cases to share with journalists.
The Society of Homeopaths - www.homeopathy-soh.org
Nelsons - www.nelsonshomoeopathy.co.uk
The Society of Homeopaths welcomes the findings of an American study into the use of homeopathic Arnica to lessen bruising after facial plastic surgery.
The study, published in Archives of Plastic Surgery (1) studied 29 patients undergoing facial plastic surgery who were given either Arnica Montana or a placebo in a double-blind fashion, before their surgery.
The results showed that the patients receiving Arnica exhibited smaller areas of bruising in the days that followed and the differences were statistically significant (P.005).
An earlier small trial by Professor Edzard Ernst had concluded Arnica was not effective in reducing bruising after carpal tunnel surgery.
For further comment contact Pamela Stevens on 0845 450 6611.
(1) Effect of homeopathic Arnica Montana on bruising in face-lifts - results of a randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Brook M, et al, Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, Vol. 8, No 1, Jan-Feb 2006
