Acupuncture and Breast Cancer…Ancient Gadgets!

In a study to be presented Wednesday, Sept. 24 at the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology’s 50th Annual Meeting in Boston, researcher Eleanor Walker, M.D., will present a randomized clinical trial comparing acupuncture to venlafaxine (Effexor) for reduction of vasomotor symptoms in breast cancer patients receiving hormonal therapy such as Tamoxifen or Arimidex.

In this 12 week study, it was shown that acupuncture reduced hot flashes as effectively as venlafaxine, without side effects common to venlafaxine therapy, such as decreased libido, insomnia, dizziness and nausea. In fact, the acupuncture group reported an increased sense of well being, more energy, and in some cases, a higher sex drive. As well, after discontinuation of therapy, the reduction in hot flashes lasted longer in the acupuncture group as compared to the patient group that stopped taking venlafaxine.
Hot flashes in menopause are often treated with HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy), however, this is not an option for breast cancer patients, as HRT can stimulate cancer cell growth. Present treatment often involves steroid medications or antidepressants such as venlafaxine.
Dr. Walker states that (with this study) acupuncture has “…been tested directly against a drug that we use regularly. And it’s more effective. It has benefits, as opposed to any side-effects. If you only have to give women treatment three to four times a year as opposed to having to take a pill every day, that’s going to be more cost-effective for insurance companies and the patient”.
This randomized study involved 47 breast cancer patients who received either Tamoxifen or Arimidex and had at least 14 hot flashes per week.
Link: Henry Ford Health System news release