Resveratrol plus carboxymethyl-β-glucan for children with respiratory diseases

Abstract

Respiratory infections in children, ranging from mild to severe, are a leading cause of school absences and medical visits, creating significant socio-economic burdens for families. Recent interest has focused on resveratrol, a natural polyphenol known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. When combined with carboxymethyl-β-glucan (CM-glucan), a modified polysaccharide with immunostimulatory effects, this formulation has shown potential benefits in managing respiratory diseases.

Our research examines five randomized clinical trials investigating the efficacy of resveratrol and CM-glucan nasal solutions in children. The trials included children with recurrent respiratory infections (RRIs) and allergic rhinitis. The results demonstrate significant reductions in key respiratory symptoms, including nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, and fever. In addition to symptomatic relief, the treatment was associated with fewer medical visits, decreased medication use, and reduced school absences. Importantly, the combination also showed efficacy in decreasing wheezing episodes in non-atopic children with RRIs and improving symptoms of allergic rhinitis. While these findings are promising, the studies are limited by small sample sizes and short-term follow-up periods, raising questions about the long-term efficacy and safety of the treatment. Mild and transient nasal irritation was the only reported side effect. Based on these concepts, the combination of resveratrol and carboxymethyl-β-glucan could be considered a valuable add-on strategy, complementing standard pharmacological treatments for pediatric respiratory infections and allergic conditions.