Effects of electroacupuncture therapy for depression: Study protocol for a multicentered, randomized controlled trial
Wa Cai1,2, Wen Ma1, Ai-Wen Chen1
1Institute of Acupuncture and Anesthesia.
Medicine
|September 22, 2020
Summary
Electroacupuncture (EA) shows promise as a safe and effective treatment for depression, offering an alternative to traditional Western medicine. This study provides clinical evidence for EA
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Depression is a significant global public health concern with widespread negative impacts.
- Electroacupuncture (EA) is being investigated as a potential therapeutic intervention for depressive disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) compared to manual acupuncture (MA) and Western medicine for treating depression.
- To provide robust clinical evidence for the use of EA in depressive patients.
Main Methods:
- A 3-arm, nonblinded, randomized controlled trial involving 144 participants across 4 centers.
- Interventions included 4 weeks of EA, MA, or daily oral fluoxetine (20mg).
- Primary outcome: Hamilton Depression Scale. Secondary outcomes: Self-Rating Depression Scale, TCM Depression Scale, fMRI, and blood biomarkers (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, BDNF). Assessments at baseline, 4 weeks, and 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- The study is designed to collect data on the primary and secondary outcomes to compare the effectiveness of the three treatment groups.
- Analysis will focus on changes in depression scales, brain activity via fMRI, and key biochemical markers.
Conclusions:
- The trial aims to confirm the efficacy and safety profile of EA for depression.
- Results will inform clinical practice and provide evidence-based support for acupuncturists and healthcare providers.
