Does acupuncture help depression by enhancing antidepressants?

A 2013 study shows that acupuncture may help treat major depression by enhancing the effect of SSRIs (serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Researchers concluded that acupuncture combined with SSRIs is more effective than using SSRI medications alone. The combined care treatment benefits were statistically larger from the very first week of care. As a result, the researchers note that acupuncture potentially reduces the “delay before the onset of the therapeutic action of SSRIs.”

The research team documented, “ Acupuncture combined with SSRIs shows a statistically significant benefit over a 6-week period compared with SSRI administration only.” The team notes that acupuncture was safe, producing no adverse side effects. Additionally, acupuncture may allow for “the reduction of the dose of antidepressants and their associated adverse clinical outcome.”

Psychiatrists prescribed the SSRIs to each patient in this randomized, controlled study. The acupuncture group received SSRIs plus acupuncture care. The control group received SSRIs but no acupuncture. A differential diagnosis was made by an acupuncturist with a minimum of 15 years of clinical experience and who was certified by the China Association of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. The standard of care was protocolized to a given set of primary and secondary acupuncture point prescriptions. Secondary points were chose from the protocolized selection palette based on diagnostics.

The study results are consistent with numerous recent research findings.

Ottawa Acupuncture

If you suffer from a mental health issue and are unsure about which therapy to try we offer a free 15 minute 'no obligation' consultation in which we will help you choose the most appropriate treatment path for you. Book your free 15 consultation online NOW.