Efficacy of a Quail Eggs-Based Dietary Supplement for Allergic Rhinitis: Results of a Single-Arm Trial

Abstract

Previous data suggested the potential treatment effect of a proprietary quail eggs-based blend on allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms, induced by allergen challenge. We herein aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a similar dietary supplement, comprising the bioactive ingredients of quail eggs and the zinc mineral, in the setting of active AR. Adult patients (n = 77), aged 18- 60 years, with mild, intermittent AR were enrolled in this single-arm, open-label trial. Patients’ responses were assessed based on peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) measurements at two visits (Day 1/Visit 1 and Day 7/Visit 2) and self-rating of AR-associated symptoms on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) throughout the entire 7-day study period. PNIF values at 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 min (Visit 1) following administration of an oral dose of the study product were the primary efficacy endpoint. PNIF values (Visit 1) gradually increased from baseline (pre-treatment), with statistical significance first reached 30 min later (p = 0.002). VAS scores (Visit 1) for all AR symptoms gradually decreased with statistical significance first reached at 15 min (rhinorrhea, p = 0.042; itchy nose, p = 0.001; sneezing p < 0.001), 30 min (nasal congestion, p < 0.001; itchy eyes, p = 0.003) or 60 min (watery eyes, p = 0.04). PNIF improvement and decline of VAS scores were significantly more apparent at Visit one vs. Visit 2. Treatment-emergent adverse events were limited to cough and muscle strain (one patient each). Our results support the efficacy, rapid mode of action and tolerability of the investigated product for symptomatic treatment of mild intermittent AR.

Keywords:

• allergic rhinitis
• peak nasal inspiratory flow
• quail eggs
• visual analog scale

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by Sarantis SA.

Notes on contributors

Ekaterini Syrigou

Ekaterini Syrigou, MD, PhD is Director of the Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology of Sotiria Athens General Hospital.

Fotis Psarros

Fotis Psarros, MD, PhD is Director of the Allergiology Department, Athens Naval Hospital.

Michael Makris

Michael Makris, MD, PhD is Consultant in the Allergy Unit, 2nd Department of Dermatology and Venereology of “Attikon” University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.

Dimitra Grapsa

Dimitra Grapsa, MD, PhD is Research Fellow in the 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.

Konstantinos Syrigos

Konstantinos Syrigos, Professor, MD, PhD is Director of the 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.