The Role of Neuromodulators in Refractory Functional Dyspepsia

Short-term and Low-dose Application of Neuromodulators Increases Treatment Efficacy and Minimizes Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome in Refractory Functional Dyspepsia

The study was designed to investigate the effect of central neuromodulators on refractory functional dyspepsia

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a prevalent disease combined with emotional disorders. Antidepressants are beneficial in the treatment of refractory FD, while for the long-term use of antidepressants, it could lead to withdrawal syndrome or other adverse events.

Refractory FD patients were unsatisfied with the regular first-line anti-acid treatment. However, many patients were worried about taking antidiepressants, even though guideline has recommended antidepressant use in FD. In our study, we would use low-dose and short-term antidepressant in refractory FD patients, and investigate whether short-term antidepressants application would improve therapeutic efficacy and minimize antidepressant withdrawal of FD patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-70 years old;
• education level higher than middle school;
• met the Rome IV criteria for FD; absence of abnormalities on physical examination, laboratory tests (including a routine blood test, blood glucose, and liver function examination), and abdominal imaging and GI endoscopy within 6 months;
• absence of Helicobacter pylori infection;
• signed written informed consent for participation in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• evidence of organic digestive diseases;
• diabetes, cancer and other diseases might affect GI function;
• pregnancy, lactation or breastfeeding;
• a history of allergic reaction to any of the drugs used in the study;
• participation in other clinical trials in the previous 3 months.