MEDICAL UPDATES

 VOL. 1 Series No. MU002-2011

A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial On The Efficacy And Safety Of Arthrospira platensis (CELLIFE POWDER) In The Treatment Of ANEMIA In Infants 6-24 Months Of Age

Alma S. Ico, M.D., Felizardo N. Gatcheco, M.D., Jane Ontoy, M.D. Department of Pediatrics, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Hospital, Manila, Philippines (2007)

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Arthrospira platensis (Cellife Powder) contains high levels or iron and other nutrients associated with anemia like B-Complex, Copper etc.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy and safety of Arthrospira platensis (Cellife Powder) as hematinic to anemic infants 6 to 24 months old.

STUDY DESIGN: Randomized Double Blind Controlled Trial.

SUBJECTS: 80 infants, 6-24 months old with anemia and hemoglobin level between 7 to 11grams, without active illnesses.

METHODOLOGY: Subjects were randomized to Arthrospira platensis (Cellife Powder) and placebo group. A blinded research assistant obtained the hemoglobin and daily iron at the start of the study and at the 4^th week of trial. The infants were given the experimental drug (60mg) or placebo 4x a day (mixed with milk or food) for 4 weeks.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Descriptive statistics such as means, ranges, and percentages were used. Independent T-test was used to determine significant difference between the two group. Level of statistical significance was pegged a p=0.05 or 95% confidence level.

RESULTS: The study showed that hemoglobin at 4 weeks was significantly higher in the Arthrospira platensis (Cellife Powder), mean difference was 20.15 gm/L from baseline in the Arthrospira platensis (Cellife Powder) group and only 1.13 gm/L in the placebo group. This represents 18% and 1% increase from baseline, respectively. At baseline and at the end of the trial, there was no significant difference in the intake of iron from their usual foods in both groups (p>0.05). No adverse effects were noted in both groups.

CONCLUSION: Arthrospira platensis (Cellife Powder) is highly effective in increasing the hemoglobin levels of anemic infants. It is a safe supplement for this age group.

KEYWORDS: Arthrospira platensis (Cellife Powder), hemoglobin, anemic, supplement, infants.

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