Zhang, X., Jin, H.F., Fan, Y.H., Lu, B., Meng, L.N., & Chen, J.D. (2014). Effects and mechanisms of transcutaneous electroacupuncture on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014, 860631.
To evaluate transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEA) on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) as well as serotonin and dopamine levels among patients with cancer
Randomized, controlled trial
Vomiting was significantly improved in the treatment group compared to the control group at 48 hours only (p = 0.046). No difference was noted at 24 hours (p = 0.9) or 72 hours (p = 0.68). Nausea was significantly better for the treatment group than the control group at 48 hours (p = 0.001) and 72 hours (p = 0.025) but not at 24 hours. Serotonin and dopamine were not different at baseline but were significantly reduced in the treatment group when compared to the control group at 48 hours (p = 0.03) and 72 hours (p = 0.02). No safety issues were noted in any patients. Laboratory results and EKG tests were normal.
Transcutaneous electroacupuncture was effective at improving delayed nausea and vomiting and had no significant safety issues.
The needleless system of transcutaneous electroacupuncture made administration easy and compliance rates high.