Auricular acupuncture for treating depression during the Covid-19 pandemic
Efficacy and Safety of Auricular Acupuncture in Depression During the Covid 19 Pandemic: a Multicenter Triple-blinded Randomized Clinical Trial
This study is testing if auricular acupuncture can help university students with moderate depression feel better during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 280 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Palhoça, Santa Catarina) |
| Trial ID | NCT05855421 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the efficacy and safety of auricular acupuncture in reducing depressive symptoms among university students during the Covid-19 pandemic. Participants with moderate depression, as measured by the PHQ-9, will be randomized into two groups: one receiving auricular acupuncture and the other receiving non-specific auricular acupuncture. The trial consists of 12 sessions over six weeks, with outcomes assessed three months after inclusion. The study aims to provide evidence for a non-pharmacological treatment option for depression.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are university students aged 18 to 50 with moderate depressive symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with severe depression, suicidal risk, or those who have used auricular acupuncture in the last three months may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could offer a low-cost, effective alternative treatment for depression that is well-accepted by patients.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on auricular acupuncture for depression, similar non-pharmacological approaches have shown promise in other studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 18 and 50 years old * PHQ-9 score between 10 and 19 (moderate depression) * Availability for sessions Exclusion Criteria: Use complementary and integrative practices at the last 3 months; Suicidal risk evaluated by question number 9 in the PHQ-9 Severe depression score in the PHQ-9 Prior use of auricular acupuncture Pregnancy Menopause Tape and metal allergy
Where this trial is running
Palhoça, Santa Catarina
- Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina — Palhoça, Santa Catarina, Brazil (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Daniel MO Rodrigues, MSc
- Email: danielmor7@gmail.com
- Phone: 5548 8825-1444
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.