Shaoma Zhijing granule for children with tic disorders: A rapid health technology assessment

To rapidly assess the effectiveness, safety, economy, and applicability of Shaoma Zhijing granule (SZG) for the treatment of children with tic disorders (TD), and provide currently available best evidence for decision-makers of health policies.

We conducted a rapid health technology assessment (RHTA) to explore the value of SZG. A systematic literature search in eight literature databases and on three clinical trial registration platforms was performed. The literature was screened according to eligibility criteria. The screening process and data extraction were conducted by two reviewers, and the quality of the literature was also assessed. The results were summarized, analyzed, and presented in tables or figures.

A total of five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this study, of which one was published in English (in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry) and four in Chinese journals. The overall risk of bias for the five RCTs was evaluated as “some concerns.” SZG monotherapy or in combination with tiapride was better than tiapride alone in improving traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndromes and tic symptoms, with a daily cost of ¥67.50–107.22. Adverse events were mainly related to the digestive, respiratory, and neurological systems, but all were mild.

Overall, the current RHTA of published, peer-reviewed literature has located a small body of evidence evaluating the use of SZG for the treatment of TD in children. SZG has effects on improving TCM syndromes and tic symptoms; the daily cost is ¥67.50–107.22; and all adverse events are mild. High-quality studies with long-term follow-up should be conducted, so as to provide local evidence and consistently guide and improve scientific decision-making.