A Study of the Efficacy and Tolerability of a Preparation Containing Ruscus aculeatus in the Treatment of Chronic Venous Insufficiency of the Lower Limbs

OBJECTIVE:The objective of the study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of an extract of Ruscus aculeatus combined with hesperidin methyl chalcone and ascorbic acid (Cyclo 3 Fort®) in the treatment of uncomplicated chronic venous insufficiency.DESIGN AND METHODS:A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted in 60 patients with uncomplicated chronic venous insufficiency. The patients received two daily capsules of a Ruscus extract combination formulation or placebo for a period of 60 days. RESULTS:During the period of treatment with the Ruscus extract combination formulation, a significant decrease and regression of clinical symptoms and a reduction in lower limb circumference measured at the ankle were observed. The overall assessment of efficacy in the 30 patients receiving the active drug combination showed an excellent result in 15 patients, good in 13 and moderate in two. Of the 30 patients receiving placebo, the results were excellent in four, good in 17, moderate in eight and insufficient in one. Tolerability was considered excellent in 23 cases, good in five and poor in two.CONCLUSION:It was concluded that Ruscus extract combined with hesperidin methyl chalcone and ascorbic acid is effective and well tolerated in the treatment of patients with uncomplicated venous-lymphatic insufficiency of the lower limbs.