New study suggests adjunctive treatment of acute ear infections in young children may relieve symptoms before antibiotics are ne

A new study published by the prestigious Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal suggests that homeopathy is effective in providing symptomatic relief in the treatment of acute otitis media (AOM), a common type of ear infection, in young children. For over 100 years anecdotal reports have suggested homeopathy is an effective treatment for symptoms of AOM. 

This is the first rigorous study finding that children receiving homeopathic medicines show a statistically significant reduction in symptoms, such as temperature, pain or irritability in the first 24 hours after treatment, compared to placebo. This is a time period before antibiotics are indicated or expected to take effect.

The study notes: review articles conclude that a 10 day course of antibiotics provides only marginal benefits and that 70%-90% of all AOM episodes resolve spontaneously; 55% of children less than a year of age in the US have received antibiotic treatments; 3.4% of the US population used homeopathy in 1997, a five-fold increase since 1990; homeopathic treatment may provide relief from symptoms associated with AOM.

A randomized, double blind placebo-controlled pilot study of 75 children ages 18 months to 6 years with middle ear effusion and ear pain and/or fever for no more than 36 hours was conducted in Seattle, WA. The study was funded by Standard Homeopathic Co, who also manufactured the active and placebo tablets used in the clinical trial.

Under the Hyland's brand the company manufactures a homeopathic product for children with earaches, Hyland's Earache Tablets. Hyland's Earache Tablets are available in pharmacies and natural foods stores in the US.