A systematic review on the efficacy of vitamin B supplementation on diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Abstract Context Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication. Objective To re-evaluate the role of vitamin B supplementation on reducing the signs and symptoms of DPN. Data Sources Electronic databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Medline. Data Extraction An Excel spreadsheet was used to report the extracted relevant data. Data Analysis Fourteen randomized controlled trials were selected, comprising a pooled sample of 997 study subjects. The pooled odds ratio values were 3.1 (95%CI, 1.197–8.089) and 3.04 (95%CI, 1.556–5.937) for pain and dysesthesia outcomes, respectively. For the amplitude change in electromyography of the sensory sural nerve, the weighted difference from 2 studies was 0.37 (95%CI, 0.034–0.709) in favor of intervention. Peak latency changes were in favor of the intervention group. Two studies yielded a weighted difference of 0.571 (95%CI, 0.310–0.831) for the velocity outcome in favor of intervention. Unlike the fibular nerve, the electromyographic motor outcomes of the tibial nerve were in favor of vitamin B supplementation. Conclusion Vitamin B supplementation could improve many symptoms and signs of DPN.