Treatment for tetanus applying Kampo medicine: Administration of shakuyakukanzoto

Aim Severe tetanus can be fatal, even with the latest drug treatments and artificial respiration. Nevertheless, combining Western and Kampo medicine may be beneficial for tetanus treatment. Methods We summarise the benefits of applying Kampo medicine in tetanus, especially referring to using shakuyakukanzoto (SKT) from the aspect of controlling myospasms. SKT is a Kampo formula used for the treatment of pain associated with sudden myospasms. Results SKT, kakkonto, daisaikoto, and daijokito have been used to successfully treat patients with generalised convulsions caused by generalised tetanus, without the use of a muscle relaxant. However, hypokalaemia, oedema, and hypertension caused by pseudo‐aldosteronism, which may result from an adverse reaction to licorice, should be monitored when using SKT. Conclusion A large randomised controlled trial may be necessary to establish a treatment for tetanus using both Western and Kampo medicines.