Exploring the Role of Individualized Homoeopathic Medicine in Managing Problematic Internet Use in Adolescence: A Case Series

Abstract

Background: In India, problematic internet use (PIU) among school-going adolescents is a growing public health concern, with 21.5% showing moderate PIU and 2.6% severe levels. PIU is linked to psychological, neurological, and social challenges. Conventional treatments such as CBT, counselling, and medications often yield inconsistent results. Homoeopathy is gaining attention as a complementary method for addressing behavioural and addictive disorders, with its personalized treatment approach, mild remedies, and possible benefits in alleviating conditions such as anxiety and depression. This study provides evidence that Homoeopathy has been effective in managing PIU. Methods: This unicentric retrospective case series included six adolescents (12–14 years) diagnosed with PIU using DSM-5 criteria. Baseline and follow-up evaluations used the IAT. Individualized Homoeopathic medicines in centesimal potencies were prescribed according to the totality of symptoms. Clinical evolution, behavioral, emotional, academic, sleep-related, and interpersonal changes were recorded at each follow-up. The MONARCH causality assessment tool was applied to evaluate attribution of outcomes to the prescribed remedies. Results:  Six adolescents (4 males, 2 females) received individualized remedies: Belladonna (n=2), Stramonium (n=1), Pulsatilla nigricans (n=1), Natrum muriaticum (n=1), and Lycopodium clavatum (n=1). All remedies were prescribed in centesimal scale. The average time for recovery was 2 months. A consistent pattern of improvement was observed. Within 2-4 weeks, patients showed reduced physical complaints, screen dependency, and decreased irritability. By 6–8 weeks, emotional stability, academic engagement, family interaction, and offline participation improved. IAT scores consistently declined from moderate/severe PIU to minimal/mild levels. Of the reviewed cases, 3 scored 7/13 and another 3 scored 8/13, indicating a strong likelihood that the patients’ outcomes were attributable to the homoeopathic intervention. Conclusion: Homoeopathic treatment has demonstrated its role in managing Problematic internet use among the adolescents, as evidenced by individualized case studies. These preliminary observations support the need for larger observational studies and controlled trials to further evaluate the therapeutic potential of Homoeopathy for PIU.