Molecular Hydrogen as a Medical Gas for the Treatment of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Possible Efficacy Based on a Literature Review

Abstract

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a disorder that is characterized by fatigue that persists for more than 6 months, weakness, sleep disturbances, and cognitive dysfunction. There are multiple possible etiologies for ME/CFS, among which mitochondrial dysfunction plays a major role in abnormal energy metabolism. The potential of many substances for the treatment of ME/CFS has been examined; however, satisfactory outcomes have not yet been achieved. The development of new substances for curative, not symptomatic, treatments is desired. Molecular hydrogen (H2) ameliorates mitochondrial dysfunction by scavenging hydroxyl radicals, the most potent oxidant among reactive oxygen species. Animal experiments and clinical trials reported that H2 exerted ameliorative effects on acute and chronic fatigue. Therefore, we conducted a literature review on the mechanism by which H2 improves acute and chronic fatigue in animals and healthy people and showed that the attenuation of mitochondrial dysfunction by H2 may be involved in the ameliorative effects. Although further clinical trials are needed to determine the efficacy and mechanism of H2 gas in ME/CFS, our literature review suggested that H2 gas may be an effective medical gas for the treatment of ME/CFS.

Successful treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome using hydrogen gas: four case reports

“… 11 12 A recent literature review revealed that H 2 attenuated acute or chronic fatigue in animals and healthy subjects. 13 We also reported that the anti-fatigue effects of H 2 involved the protection of mitochondria, which may also ameliorate the pathogenesis of ME/CFS. 13 Therefore, we conducted this case study to test this hypothesis by examining the efficacy of H 2 gas inhalation in four patients with ME/CFS.…”

Molecular Hydrogen: Emerging Treatment for Stroke Management

“…The findings further indicated that molecular hydrogen impeded NF-κB phosphorylation, leading to a significant reduction in inflammation. Moreover, Hirano et al highlighted the positive influence of molecular hydrogen on both acute and chronic fatigue in their review article . Growing evidence from animal models suggests potential long-term benefits of molecular hydrogen in treating stroke patients.…”

“…Moreover, Hirano et al highlighted the positive influence of molecular hydrogen on both acute and chronic fatigue in their review article. 32 Growing evidence from animal models suggests potential long-term benefits of molecular hydrogen in treating stroke patients. However, there is currently limited clinical evidence to confirm these prolonged advantages.…”

Improving Quality of Life in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome using Antioxidant Complex Twendee M®.

“…Recently, symptoms similar to those of CFS have been reported in the sequelae of COVID-19 infection and SARS-CoV-2 vaccine [4,5,6], and the number of patients is gradually increasing worldwide. There are multiple possible causes of CFS, including abnormal energy metabolism due to mitochondrial dysfunction [7] and inflammation in the brain.…”