# Efficacy and Safety of P. hybridus Leaf Extract Ze 339 for the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis

## TL;DR

This paper reviews the effectiveness and safety of a butterbur leaf extract for treating allergic rhinitis, showing it works well with few side effects.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive review of Ze 339's safety and efficacy over two decades, establishing it as a viable alternative to antihistamines.

## Key findings

- Ze 339 is effective in treating allergic rhinitis symptoms.
- Ze 339 is well-tolerated with a low incidence of adverse events.

## Abstract

This review article focuses on safety and efficacy aspects of the P. hybridus leaf extract Ze 339 for the treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms. By summarizing the available data from preclinical, clinical and non-interventional studies, as well as post-marketing pharmacovigilance monitoring, it provides a detailed overview of the therapeutic value of this herbal medicinal product.

The main findings are as follows:
Ze 339 is efficient in the treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms;Ze 339 is well-tolerated with a low incidence of adverse events.

Ze 339 is efficient in the treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms;

Ze 339 is well-tolerated with a low incidence of adverse events.

The implication of the main finding is the following:
Phytopharmaceuticals display an efficient and safe alternative to synthetic antihistamines in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

Phytopharmaceuticals display an efficient and safe alternative to synthetic antihistamines in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a global health problem on the rise. More and more people are affected, and climate change is exacerbating this health problem in the long term. The quality of life of those affected is often severely compromised, and the financial burden on healthcare systems cannot be disregarded. Therefore, effective and safe medicines are needed to counteract this trend. P. hybridus (butterbur) leaf extract (Ze 339) displays a promising alternative to antihistamines in the treatment of AR symptoms. More than two decades after the first market launch it is now possible to draw a meaningful conclusion on its safety and efficacy. This review summarizes the available preclinical and clinical data, real-world data (RWD) as well as data from post-marketing pharmacovigilance monitoring about the herbal medicinal drug Ze 339. It focusses on the current knowledge about the mode of action as well as the evaluation of its efficacy and safety in the treatment of AR. Given its favourable safety profile and lack of sedative side effects, Ze 339 offers a valuable alternative to antihistamines and should therefore continue to be considered by medical practitioners for the treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms.