DOI: 10.22246/jikm.2026.47.4.567 ISSN: 1226-9174

The Efficacy and Safety of <i>Palmul-tang</i> for Chemotherapy-Induced Leukopenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

Ah-young Choi, Jung-hun Lee, Sung-mo Kim, Kyung-soon Kim

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of Bazhen Decoction for chemotherapy-induced leukopenia, we analyzed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which <i>Palmul-tang</i> (Bazhen Decoction) was administered to patients with chemotherapy-induced leukopenia.Methods: Nine databases were searched for RCTs published up to June 2026, with no language restrictions. Data synthesis was performed using RevMan Web, and methodological quality was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 tool.Results: Fourteen RCTs were included. Bazhen Decoction significantly improved white blood cell counts, total effective rate, and immune function compared with controls. Combination therapy also reduced adverse events.Conclusions: <i>Palmul-tang</i> may improve chemotherapy-induced leukopenia and immune function, with potentially fewer adverse events when used in combination therapy. Nevertheless, the evidence is limited; large-scale RCTs are needed to confirm these findings.

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