Fifatrol: An Ayurvedic Drug Found to be Effective Against Cold and Flu

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are leading causes of economic burden because they remain among the top 3 diagnosed diseases globally, with an estimated annual cost above $22 billion. Available medications to treat URTI and associated symptoms are effective, however, their tolerability remains a challenge for practitioners. A team of researchers carried out the study on 203 patients with URTI in various health centers across the country. During the treatment, the health parameters of the patients who were given Fifatrol twice a day were checked on the first, fourth, and seventh day (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Fifatrol, An Ayurvedic Formulation- A Prospective Multi-Center Observational Study On The Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Go to source). As per the study, the patient’s condition was found to have improved by 69.5% and 90.36% within the fourth and seventh days respectively.

“Effectiveness was evaluated by examining the reduction in symptom scores at days 4 and 7 respectively. This observational study has gathered evidence about the effectiveness and safety of Fifatrol on the amelioration of the symptoms of URTI," said the authors.

The researchers also did not find any adverse impact of the formulations on the patients. Fifatrol as an immunity-boosting ayurvedic drug has found a mention as a COVID-19-combating formulation in the ‘Compendium of Indian Technologies for combating COVID-19 (Tracing, Testing &Treating)’ compiled by the state-run National Research Development Corporation last year.

Usually, ayurvedic medicines have been seen as supplements to increase immunity. However, there has been compelling evidence that medicinal herbs can be a first line of defense against infectious diseases.

Fifatrol as Medication for URTIs

Fifatrol is a rich combination of five vital classical formulations like Tribhuvan Kirti Rasa, Mrtunjay Rasa, Sanjivani Vati, Sudershan Ghan Vati & Godanti Bhasam which are well documented for their potent antibacterial and anti-viral actions, along with immuno-modulatory, antipyretic, analgesic, and antihistaminic effects (2^✔ ✔Trusted Source
A Review on Pharmacological Aspects of Achyranthes Aspera

Go to source). It improves the immune system to fight against viruses & other infections eases the associated symptoms and fastens the recovery. It helps fast relief from nasal congestion, body aches, sore throat, and headaches.

This is important because the first objective of treatment for the URTI remains relief from the symptoms. Antibiotics, antivirals, decongestants, and H1-receptor antagonists are the available medications for URTI. However, evidence-based information doesn't uphold the use of antibiotics as a treatment and management of the common cold since antibiotics do not alleviate symptoms or the course of disease.

URTI accounts for around 10 million outpatient consultations a year, especially because of the severity of its symptoms. The estimated yearly frequency of URTI symptoms, including the common cold in adults and pediatrics are 2-3 and up to 8 respectively.

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The study highlights the preliminary evidence on the potential safety and effectiveness of Fifatrol in the management of the symptoms of URTI.

References:

1. Fifatrol, An Ayurvedic Formulation- A Prospective Multi-Center Observational Study On The Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections - (https://irjay.com/index.php/irjay/article/view/251)
2. A Review on Pharmacological Aspects of Achyranthes Aspera - (https://medwinpublishers.com/IPCM/IPCM16000188.pdf)

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Source-Medindia