Abstract
The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is on the
rise, especially among psychiatric patients. Acupuncture is considered
a safe and effective treatment modality, and traditional Chinese
medicine teaches that acupuncture harmonizes the body's energies.
Scientific research has found that acupuncture increases a number
of central nervous system hormones (ACTH, beta-endorphins, serotonin,
and noradrenaline) and urinary levels of MHPG-sulfate, an adrenergic
metabolite inversely related to the severity of illness in schizophrenics.
Acupuncture can have positive effects on depression and anxiety,
although evidence is still lacking as to its true efficacy for these
conditions. To the authors' knowledge, no trials have been conducted
for schizophrenia, and researchers evaluating acupuncture in cases
of substance abuse have found conflicting results. Further research
is warranted.
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