Ginkgo biloba extract for age-related macular degeneration (Cochrane Review)

A substantive amendment to this systematic review was last made on 05 May 1999. Cochrane reviews are regularly checked and updated if necessary.

Background: Ginkgo is used in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease and 'cerebral insufficiency'. It is thought to have several potential mechanisms of action including increased blood flow, platelet activating factor antagonism and prevention of membrane damage caused by free radicals. Vascular factors and oxidative damage are thought to be two potential mechanisms in the pathology of age-related macular degeneration.

Objectives: The objective of this review is to determine the effect of Ginkgo Biloba extract on the progression of age-related macular degeneration.

Search strategy: The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register - CENTRAL/CCTR (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group specialised register) on the Cochrane Library (Issue 4 2001), MEDLINE (1966 to October 2001), EMBASE (1980 to November 2001), reference lists of identified trial reports, and the Science Citation Index were searched. Investigators of included studies were contacted for additional information.

Selection criteria: All randomised trials where Ginkgo Biloba extract had been compared to control in people with age-related macular degeneration were included.

Data collection and analysis: The reviewer extracted data using a standardised form. The data were verified with the trial investigator.

Main results: One published trial was identified. Although a beneficial effect was observed, as only 20 people were enrolled in the trial, and assessment of outcome was not masked, its results must be considered equivocal. Adverse effects and quality of life for people with age-related macular degeneration have not been addressed. One unpublished trial is awaiting translation and assessment.

Reviewers' conclusions: The question as to whether people with age-related macular degeneration should take Ginkgo Biloba extract to prevent progression of the disease has not been answered by research to date.

Citation: Evans JR. Ginkgo biloba extract for age-related macular degeneration (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 3, 2003. Oxford: Update Software.

---

This is an abstract of a regularly updated, systematic review prepared and maintained by the Cochrane Collaboration. The full text of the review is available in The Cochrane Library (ISSN 1464-780X).

The Cochrane Library is designed and produced by Update Software Ltd.

Update Software Ltd, Summertown Pavilion, Middle Way, Oxford OX2 7LG, UK
(Tel:+44 1865 513902; Fax:+44 1865 516918)

File Reference: AB001775.htm