Effects of capsaicin on swallowing function in stroke patients with dysphagia: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background/Aims Dysphagia is a common complication after acute stroke. While there are several innovative treatments being tested to improve the swallowing function of stroke patients with dysphagia, our aim is to explore the use of readily available natural capsaicin in stroke patients with dysphagia. Study design A randomized, double-blind study. Methods Sixty-nine hospitalized stroke patients were enrolled in this study. The capsaicin intervention group received thermal tactile stimulation with supplementation of natural capsaicin and additional nectar viscosity boluses. The control group received stimulation and boluses with placebo. Swallowing function was evaluated before and after the 3-week treatment, using Volume-Viscosity Swallow Test, Eating Assessment Tool, Standardized Swallowing Assessment, and Water Swallow Test. Results The score decreases in the Eating Assessment Tool and Standardized Swallowing Assessment of the capsaicin intervention group were significantly greater than that of the placebo control group ( P P Conclusions Regular use of natural capsaicin could promote the recovery of swallow function in stroke patients with dysphagia. The ample availability of natural capsaicin could provide a low cost, easily accessible, and safe alternative method to address dysphagia in stoke patients.