ME/CFSに対する分子状水素の可能性：臨床的エビデンスと作用機序に関するミニレビュー
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) remains without approved pharmacological options. This narrative mini-review examines the mechanistic basis for molecular hydrogen (H2), delivered mainly as hydrogen-rich water (HRW), as a candidate intervention. H2 exhibits selective antioxidant properties, suppresses inflammatory signaling, and supports mitochondrial homeostasis—biological targets relevant to ME/CFS pathophysiology, which involves oxidative stress, persistent inflammation, and disrupted energy metabolism. Three early-phase clinical studies of HRW in ME/CFS patients were evaluated; moderate-dose, extended-duration use showed preliminary reductions in fatigue and improvements in physical function with mild adverse effects. Parallels with Long COVID suggest broader applicability to post-viral fatigue states. Methodological constraints—small samples, self-reported outcomes, and absent objective biomarkers—limit current conclusions. Larger, rigorously controlled trials with remote biometric and biochemical monitoring are recommended to define responsive subgroups and clarify mechanisms.
H2 selectively scavenges reactive oxygen species, suppresses NF-κB-mediated inflammatory signaling, and supports mitochondrial homeostasis, thereby addressing oxidative stress and impaired energy metabolism implicated in ME/CFS pathophysiology.
Hydrogen-rich water is a low-risk delivery route, but the achievable systemic hydrogen dose is bounded. For clinical applications, inhalation is the most efficient route; inhalation, however, carries explosion risk, and concentration matters (empirical LFL of 10% applies to inhalation environments; high-concentration devices are documented in the Consumer Affairs Agency accident database and are not recommended).
See also:
https://h2-papers.org/en/papers/41930109