Efficacy of acupuncture versus sham acupuncture on generalized anxiety disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the specific efficacy of acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), beyond nonspecific or placebo effects.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, WanFang, VIP, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and EMBASE from inception to October 2025. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing acupuncture with sham acupuncture in adults diagnosed with GAD were included. Primary outcome was the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), with secondary outcomes including Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), cortisol (CORT), and adrenocorticotropic horm

SUBMITTER: Jiang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12646924 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature