Effects of carboxymethyl glucan (CM-glucan) in children with allergic rhinitis and asthma: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Beta-glucans are known immunomodulators with anti-carcinogenic properties. They may cause skewing of the T helper (Th) 2-mediated immune response to a Th1-mediated response, thus having a potential role in decreasing allergic symptoms among patients with rhinitis and asthma.

Methods: To evaluate the effect of CM-glucan on allergic rhinitis symptoms and asthma control among children, 50 poly-sensitized children aged 7 to 18 years with allergic rhinitis and asthma were enrolled. Patients were randomized to receive CM-glucan (10 mg per orem bid) or placebo over a period of 90 days. The Total Nasal Symptoms Score (TNSS) and Asthma Control Test (ACT) questionnaires were used to assess symptom improvement at baseline, 2 weeks, and post-treatment. Lung function parameters and nasal eosinophil counts (%) were measured.

Results: Out of 50 patients (CM-glucan, n=26; placebo, n=24) included in the study, 40 patients (CM=glucan, n=20; placebo, n=20) completed the study. After 90-days treatment, CM-glucan significantly improved runny nose (rhinorrhea) (p=0.002). Nasal congestion, itchy nose, post-nasal drip, and sneezing improved in both treatment groups but did not differ significantly (p> 0.05). The mean nasal eosinophil counts (p=0.025) significantly decreased from baseline to post-treatment; however, no significant difference (p=0.486) between the 2 groups was seen. Similarly,       CM-glucan significantly improved nocturnal asthma symptoms (wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath)(p=0.020). The mean FVC (p<0.001), FEV1 (p<0.001), FEF_25-75 (p<0.001), and PEFR (p<0.001) significantly increased in both groups, although no difference (p>0.05) was found when comparing post-treatment improvements between the 2 groups.

Conclusion: CM-glucan significantly reduces rhinorrhea and nocturnal asthma symptoms among children with allergic rhinitis and asthma.