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.

Study details

Article type

Review

Disease / injury model

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), post-COVID/long COVID fatigue

Dose comparison

The review discusses different concentrations of hydrogen (e.g., 1.0–1.2 ppm in water, 2% H2 gas, 0.6 ppm H2-saline) and their effects on fatigue and biomarkers.

Dose-dependent effect

No

Outcome

Positive

Findings

The review suggests that molecular hydrogen (H2) has anti-fatigue effects and could be an effective medical gas for the treatment of ME/CFS, likely through amelioration of mitochondrial dysfunction, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, further clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy in ME/CFS patients.