Acupuncture as adjunctive therapy for patients with AECOPD: study protocol for a multicenter, randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Integrative and Complementary Medicine
• Respiratory Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) presents a significant global health challenge.
• Acupuncture shows promise for AECOPD management, but evidence quality is limited.
• Optimal acupoint combinations for acupuncture in AECOPD require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture as adjunctive therapy for AECOPD.
• To compare the clinical effectiveness of different acupoint combinations in AECOPD treatment.
• To assess acupuncture's impact on symptom burden using the Breathlessness, Cough, and Sputum Scale (BCSS).

Main Methods:

• Prospective, multicenter randomized controlled trial with 556 participants.
• Four arms: two distinct acupuncture point combinations, sham acupuncture, and basic drug therapy.
• Primary outcome: BCSS scores at baseline, 7 days, 5 weeks, and 9 weeks post-randomization.

Main Results:

• This section is to be populated upon study completion.
• Data analysis will compare BCSS changes across all trial arms.
• Statistical significance will determine the efficacy of acupuncture and specific acupoint combinations.

Conclusions:

• This trial will provide high-quality evidence on acupuncture's role in AECOPD.
• Findings will guide clinical practice regarding acupoint selection for AECOPD.
• Results will inform public health strategies for managing AECOPD.