Effects of Electroacupuncture and Electroacupuncture Plus Tao Hong Si Wu Wan in Treating Primary Dysmenorrhea

Abstract

This study investigated the efficacies of electroacupuncture and electroacupuncture combined with Tao Hong Si Wu Wan in treating primary dysmenorrhea and compared the results with those obtained using conventional medical treatment. One treatment group, group 1, was administered Tao Hong Si Wu Wan (2625 mg) while the other, group 2, was administered a placebo (2625 mg) twice daily for 3 months. Electroacupuncture was used in both treatment groups: two sessions per menstrual cycle for three menstrual cycles. The reference group, group 3, was administered ibuprofen, 600 mg, twice daily, for five menstrual cycles. Uses of the herb, placebo and ibuprofen were blinded. A ridit analysis was used for testing and interpreting the effects of treatment. Pain intensity was determined using a qualitative grading method in a blinded manner. The ridit scores in groups 1 and 2 were significantly higher than those in reference group immediately after treatment and three months later. Twelve months after the treatment, group 1 had a higher ridit score than group 2. In comparison to the reference group, groups 1 and 2 achieved better menstrual pain relief both immediately and 3 months after treatment. In addition, group 1 had better long-term pain relief than group 2.

Comparative efficacy and safety of NSAIDs-controlled acupuncture in the treatment of patients with primary dysmenorrhoea: a Bayesian network meta-analysis

“…Endogenous opioid receptors mediate the analgesic effects of electroacupuncture. 34 In one study, electroacupuncture was used to stimulate the acupuncture point SP6, which resulted in an increase of beta-endorphins in the rat uterus and consequent analgesia. 34 Hypoimmunity is a typical manifestation of primary dysmenorrhoea.…”

“…34 In one study, electroacupuncture was used to stimulate the acupuncture point SP6, which resulted in an increase of beta-endorphins in the rat uterus and consequent analgesia. 34 Hypoimmunity is a typical manifestation of primary dysmenorrhoea. 35 Electroacupuncture can lead to the release of interleukin-1 and interleukin-6 and increase the activity of natural killer cells in rats with primary dysmenorrhoea.…”