Acupoints with potential to treat schizophrenia: A systematic review and data mining analysis

Abstract

IntroductionIn China, acupuncture has been used to treat mental health disorders for thousands of years. Although previous studies support the benefits of acupuncture for people with schizophrenia, the selection of appropriate acupoints remains challenging. In this study, we discovered potential acupoints to treat schizophrenia. MethodsThe frequency and combination of acupoints in schizophrenia treatment were analyzed using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance Support System. Clinical trials including acupuncture prescriptions completed before February 29, 2020, were included, and their quality was evaluated using the CONSORT and STRICTA statements. ResultsIn total, 49 clinical trials with 51 acupuncture prescriptions were included. GV 20, PC 6, GV 29, ST 36, SP 6, LI 4, LR 3, ST 40, HT 7, EX-HN 1, GV 24, and GV 26 were the most frequently used acupoints. The Governor vessel was the most commonly used meridian. Acupoint combinations of GV 20 and GV 29, GV 20 and LI 4, GV 20 and PC 6, and GV 20 and ST 36 were frequently used. Overall, 30 acupoint combinations achieved confidence levels of 60–100%, with 11 showing >80% confidence. GV 24 to > GV 20, LI 4, and GV 29 to > GV 20 showed the highest confidence. ConclusionsOur results provide a reference for the selection and combination of acupoints for clinical schizophrenia treatment and indicate that complete adherence to the CONSORT and STRICTA statements must be ensured while designing clinical trials of acupuncture for schizophrenia treatment.