Acupuncture and depression

Acupuncture has been advocated for management of many chronic disorders. Multiple trials have studied its efficacy in depression, which affects 2.3 to 3.2 percent of men and 4.5 to 9 percent of women.

Dr. Leo and colleagues from State University of New York at Buffalo conducted a systematic review of the existing randomized controlled trials on this topic and published their findings in the Journal of Affective Disorders (August 2006).

These investigators found that comparison of acupuncture with control conditions suggests evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture in depression. They also found that acupuncture might be as effective as antidepressants. Data from studies comparing acupuncture with sham acupuncture however was not supportive.

What are your thoughts on alternative and complimentary therapies (CAM)? Have you or someone close to you has used them? Given a choice between a CAM therapy versus traditional therapy, which one would you use?