Effects of qian-kun-nin, a Chinese herbal medicine formulation, on HIV positive subjects: a pilot study

Qian-kun-nin is a Chinese herbal formulation considered to have anti-infection, anti-tumor and immuno-enhancing properties. Data from previous investigations showed that qian-kun-nin causes HIV growth inhibition and immunomodulation in vitro, suggesting that this formula has the ability to inhibit HIV and modulate impaired immune functions in humans. We conducted this pilot study to evaluate the anti-retroviral and immunological enhancing effects of this formula on HIV positive subjects. Eight subjects completed the study, receiving oral qian-kun-nin capsules for 24 consecutive weeks in a single blind design. Compared to baseline level, the plasma virus load decreased significantly at the end of week 12 (p < 0.01) and week 24 (p < 0.01), respectively. Four weeks after cessation of qian-kun-nin treatment, plasma virus load was still significantly lower compared to baseline (p < 0.01). Blood CD4 cell counts were increased significantly at the end of the 12th week compared to the baseline level (p < 0.01). No adverse effects were observed, and no significant side effects were recorded in any subjects. These data suggest that qian-kun-nin has therapeutic potential in the treatment of HIV positive patients.