Using acupoint thread embedding to help with obesity
The Effect and Safety of Acupoint Thread Embedding on Over-weight and Obesity Treatment : A Randomized, Single-Blind, Sham- Controlled Study
This study is testing if a traditional acupuncture method using thread can help women aged 18 to 45 who are overweight lose weight safely.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 132 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality) |
| Trial ID | NCT06316310 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness and safety of acupoint thread embedding as a treatment for obesity in women aged 18 to 45 with a BMI of 24 or higher. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the acupoint thread embedding treatment or a sham procedure to assess the true impact of the therapy. The study aims to provide medical evidence regarding the efficacy of this traditional method in promoting weight loss. The trial will also monitor participants for any adverse effects associated with the treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are females aged 18 to 45 with a BMI of 24 or higher and a waist circumference of at least 80 cm.
Not a fit: Patients with secondary obesity due to medical conditions or those who have undergone bariatric surgery may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could offer a new, non-invasive option for weight loss in obese patients.
How similar studies have performed: While acupoint thread embedding is a recognized practice, there is limited medical evidence supporting its effectiveness compared to sham treatments, making this study a valuable exploration of its potential.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Females aged 18\~45 years old; * BMI≥24.0 kg/m2； * WC≥80cm ; recommended BMI and WC threshold value to define overweight in China; * Stable weight change (increase or decrease of ≤4 kg) within 3 months prior to the start of the test; * Agree to participate in the trial and sign a written informed consent form; Exclusion Criteria: * Secondary obesity caused by drugs, or neuro-endocrine-metabolic disorders (such as thalamic disease, hypopituitarism, etc.); * History of bariatric surgery (gastric reduction, liposuction, etc.); * Are taking medications that may affect the results of the trial (weight): * Severe ulcers, abscesses, skin infections, etc. at the acupuncture site; * Severe heart, brain, lung, liver and kidney insufficiency, hematopoietic system disease or other serious diseases; * Participated in other clinical medical trial studies in the past 1 month; * History of acupoint thread embedding in the past 6 months; * Alcoholism, drug abuse, or smoking (change in smoking habits within the past 2 months or a plan to quit smoking during the study period); * Pregnant and lactating women.
Where this trial is running
Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine — Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China (Recruiting)
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.