Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) remains a core component of China’s healthcare system and is integrated alongside Western medicine in clinical practice. As manufacturers introduce innovative therapies to the Chinese market, understanding how TCM is reflected in national clinical guidelines is critical for effective product positioning and market access. This study explores the presence and role of TCM across major disease guidelines in China.
METHODS: We conducted a targeted review of national clinical guidelines covering six diseases: COVID-19, influenza, lung cancer, liver cancer, COPD, and diabetes. Guidelines were identified from the National Health Commission, Chinese Medical Association, and other national bodies (from 2018 to 2024). For lung and liver cancer, we specifically reviewed 中西医结合 (integrated Chinese and Western medicine) guidelines to reflect real-world multidisciplinary practice. Data extracted included TCM treatment recommendations, integration with Western therapies, and any mention of co-administration or interaction.
RESULTS: All six guideline sets included TCM, though its role varied. COVID-19 and influenza guidelines featured detailed TCM protocols, including herbal formulas by disease stage, often used alongside antivirals or symptom treatments. Integrated guidelines for lung and liver cancer recommended TCM for supportive care and as a complement to chemotherapy or targeted therapies. In COPD and diabetes, TCM appeared mainly as adjunctive to standard regimens. While few guidelines explicitly discussed drug interactions, co-administration was commonly implied.
CONCLUSIONS: TCM is widely embedded in Chinese clinical guidance and influences prescribing behaviours. Manufacturers should consider co-positioning or differentiation strategies based on the degree of TCM integration. Awareness of TCM’s role in treatment norms is essential for effective product positioning and market access planning in China.