Effects of Acupuncture on the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression Caused by Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Abstract

Objective The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of acupuncture and sham acupuncture on the symptoms of anxiety and depression brought on by premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Methods In a single-blind randomised clinical trial, 30 volunteers with PMDD were assigned alternately to group 1 (acupuncture) or group 2 (sham acupuncture), and completed an evaluation of symptoms of anxiety and depression using the Hamilton Anxiety (HAM-A) and Hamilton Depression (HAM-D) Rating Scales. The procedure was performed twice a week for two menstrual cycles, for a total of 16 attendances for each participant. Results Before the intervention the mean HAM-A and HAM-D scores did not differ between groups. Following the intervention symptoms of anxiety and depression were reduced in both groups; however, the improvement was significant in group 1 compared to group 2, as shown by a mean reduction in HAM-A scores of 58.9% in group 1 and 21.2% in group 2 (p<0.001). The reduction in the mean HAM-D scores was 52.0% in group 1 and 19.6% in group 2, resulting in a significant difference (p=0.012). Conclusions The results suggest that acupuncture could be another treatment option for PMDD patients.

Electroacupuncture and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Sub-Syndromal Depression among Undergraduates: A Controlled Clinical Trial

“…Our finding that EA appeared to be better at improving sleep disturbance (a somatic symptom) is partly consistent with previous studies demonstrating the beneficial effect of EA on depressive symptoms,25 26 in which EA (alone or in combination) resulted in relatively lower sleep disturbance scores compared to CBT. Previous research has suggested that acupuncture may help regulate circadian rhythm and melatonin levels, which are reported to be intimately linked to sleep-related problems and depressive disorders 27–30…”

Placebo effects in psychiatry: mediators and moderators

“…74 Except for the meta-analyses by Linde and colleagues, 65,66 only individual RCTs have been reported in the scientific literature with variable sham response rates on disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, 75 premenstrual syndrome, 76 and post-chemotherapy chronic fatigue. 77 This predominant efficacy in somatoform disorders is not surprising, in view of the strong action of acupuncture on peripheral autonomic functions.…”

Effect of Acupuncture on Premature Ovarian Failure: A Pilot Study

“…Present study just revealed that the SAS and Kupperman score of patients were lowered after three months' treatment. This might be explained by the mind adjustment and mental improving effects of acupuncture [28, 29]. …”