Oscillococcinum leading to angioedema, a rare adverse event

Abstract

Oscillococcinum is an alternative medicine prepared by serial dilution of wild duck heart and liver extracts. This preparation has been labelled as a ‘non drowsy, homoeopathic medicine’ that ‘reduces the duration and severity of flu and flu-like symptoms’. Clinical evidence exists to support this claim and the product has not previously been reported to cause any serious adverse drug reactions. We bring to light, however, a case of angioedema in our patient who was using oscillococcinum for flu-like symptoms. Consumers must therefore exercise caution at the outset of allergy symptoms.