Acupuncture for amnestic mild cognitive impairment: A pilot multicenter, randomized, parallel controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Integrative Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Amnesic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) significantly increases Alzheimer's disease risk.
• Early intervention for aMCI is crucial due to Alzheimer's irreversible nature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in treating aMCI.
• To explore the feasibility of conducting large-scale clinical trials on acupuncture for aMCI.

Main Methods:

• Pilot multicenter, randomized, parallel controlled trial.
• 50 aMCI patients allocated to acupuncture (n=25) or sham acupuncture (n=25) groups.
• 12-week treatment with 2 sessions/week, assessing cognitive function and safety.

Main Results:

• This pilot study is designed to gather preliminary data on efficacy and safety.
• Feasibility of conducting a larger clinical trial will be evaluated.

Conclusions:

• This pilot trial will provide essential feasibility data for future large-scale acupuncture studies in aMCI.
• Results will form a preliminary basis for future clinical trials.