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Context. Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS) is a well-known Chinese herbal medicine used in the treatment of depression and anxiety in China. ZSS contains several active components, such as alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids. Objective. This study aimed to explore the synergistic effect of alkaloids and saponins from ZSS in alleviating depression in a mouse model. Materials and Methods. Modeling depression with chronic unpredictable stimuli. Pharmacodynamic methods (tail suspension test and forced swimming test) were used to evaluate the antidepressant effects of alkaloids, saponins, and combinations thereof from ZSS. The mechanisms underlying the effect were examined by measuring the levels of monoamine neurotransmitters in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of mice. Results. Compared with the model group, alkaloids therapy (AZSS), saponins therapy (SZSS), and combination therapy significantly reduced the immobility time in behavioral tests (P < 0.05). The contents of noradrenaline (NE), dopamine (DA), and serotonin (5-HT) in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of depressed mice were increased in the drug treatment groups, especially in the combination group, which increased by 14.65%, 87.72%, 33.44%, 25.64%, 25.39%, and 70.78%, respectively. Several groups showed better results (P < 0.05), especially the combination of alkaloids and saponins. Discussion and Conclusion. The saponins and alkaloids from ZSS exhibited a synergistic effect in improving the behavior of depressed mice. More importantly, the combination of alkaloids (15 mg·kg−1) and saponins (110 mg·kg−1) was effective in alleviating depression in mice, especially in terms of changing the level of DA in the hippocampus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This study intended to systematically evaluate the effectiveness and safety of modified Dachengqi Decoction (MDD) combined with conventional treatment for treating acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). Method. An extensive search was performed within 6 English and Chinese electronic databases from inception to April 2012. Methodological quality was assessed according to Cochrane risk of bias assessment. Data were analyzed using Review Manager 5.1. Results. A total of 16 studies (involving 1112 patients) were included. The result showed that MDD and its modification combined with routine treatment were more effective in improving FEV1%pred, enhancing the significant effectiveness, reducing PCO2, and shortening duration of mechanical ventilation. Adverse events were reported in two trials with symptom of diarrhea, while no serious adverse effect was reported. Conclusion. Modified Dachengqi Decoction appears to be effective for treating AECOPD. However, more regular designed RCTs are needed because of insufficient methodological problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]