Herbal medicine for the prevention of sarcopenia: A protocol for systematic review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is a syndrome characterized by a gradual and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength leading to physical disability, poor quality of life, and possible death. The disease impacts the steadily increasing aging population worldwide. In this systematic review protocol, we aim to investigate the effects and safety of herbal medicines on skeletal muscle health, specifically focusing on possible treatments for preventing sarcopenia. METHODS: Nine electronic databases will be comprehensively searched from inception to the present date. Clinical studies reporting on the effects and safety of herbal medicines associated with skeletal muscle health and the prevention of sarcopenia will be included. The primary outcome will be determined by five categories: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant efficacy, muscle damage prevention, anti-fatigue effect, muscle-atrophy prevention, and muscle regeneration and differentiation. Two independent researchers will perform the research selection, data extraction, and quality assessment processes. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool will be used to assess the methodological quality and design of the included studies. We will place no restrictions on publication status or language, and the results of the systematic review will be disseminated electronically and in print by publication in a peer-reviewed journal. RESULTS: The present study will evaluate the effects and safety of herbal medicines for the prevention of sarcopenia. CONCLUSION: Our findings will provide guidance on the use of herbal medicines to prevent sarcopenia. This knowledge is valuable for elderly people, clinicians treating patients with sarcopenia, policy makers, and researchers. REGISTRATION NUMBER: Reviewregistry1113 (URL: https://www.researchregistry.com/browse-the-registry#registryofsystematicreviewsmeta-analyses/registryofsystematicreviewsmeta-analysesdetails/604a1e5ef176d2001b557750/). Copyright © 2021 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.