Acupuncture May Reduce Chemotherapy Side-Effects

[Harry Hirsute]

"Acupuncture to Alleviate Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting in Pediatric Oncology - A Randomized Multicenter Crossover Pilot Trial,"

Gottschling S, Reindl TK, et al, Klin Padiatr, 2008; 220(6): 365-70. (Address: Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany).

In a multicenter, crossover study involving 23 children (age: 13.6 years) receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy for the treatment of solid malignant tumors, treatment with acupuncture was found to significantly prevent nausea and vomiting.

Children who received acupuncture had significantly less of a need for anti-emetic medication, as compared to children not receiving acupuncture. In addition, there were significantly fewer episodes of vomiting among children who received acupuncture.

The authors conclude, "Acupuncture as applied here seems to be effective in preventing nausea and vomiting in pediatric cancer patients."

http://www.vitasearch.com/get-clp-summary/37813