A Clinical Trial on Acupuncture for the Treatment of Nausea and Vomiting Induced by Chemotherapy

Abstract

One of the most prevalent and unpleasant side effects that cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy often encounter is chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Antiemetic medicine has come a long way, yet many patients still suffer from nausea, vomiting, and a diminished quality of life. As a result, acupressure and other complementary therapies are gaining popularity as ways to alleviate symptoms and promote patient well-being.  The frequency and severity of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy were significantly reduced in patients who got acupressure in addition to normal antiemetic medication, as compared to those who received standard treatment alone. In addition to these benefits, participants noted an increase in their appetite, comfort, and capacity to carry out their regular tasks. The intervention was well-tolerated and safe because no serious side effects associated with acupressure were reported. The results of this clinical trial provide more evidence that acupressure can help alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. As an additional tool to traditional antiemetic therapy, it is highly advantageous due to its non-invasiveness, simplicity of administration, inexpensive cost, and positive safety profile. Patients receiving chemotherapy may find their symptoms better managed and their quality of life improved if acupressure is included in their supportive cancer treatment. It is advised that additional large-scale research be conducted to validate these results and create uniform clinical guidelines.