Wen-Li Yan , Zun-Qi Kan , Li-Qiong Wang , Zhen-Ping Yu , Cun-Zhi Liu , Shi-Yan Yan , Na-Na Yang
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background
The purpose of this study was to conduct a network meta-analysis (NMA) comparing the effectiveness and safety of traditional acupuncture with metformin. This study aims to identify an effective and safe alternative treatment for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) complicated by insulin resistance (IR).
Methods
We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, ClinicalTrials.gov, and relevant citations for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to August 12, 2024. Data extraction and bias assessment were performed by two independent reviewers, and Bayesian NMA was performed using the GeMTC package, with a random effects model. The NMA compared the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture with metformin which were measured using the Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) index, fasting plasma glucose, fasting insulin, and the incidence of adverse events (AEs).
Results
We included 12 RCTs (n = 870). Four RCTs compared acupuncture with metformin, six compared metformin with control interventions (blank control or placebo), and two compared acupuncture with sham acupuncture. Acupuncture (Mean difference (MD): -0.76, 95 % credible interval (CrI): -1.42, -0.03) and metformin (MD: -0.74, 95 % CrI: -1.28, -0.17) significantly reduced the IR level (HOMA-IR). No statistical difference was observed between both treatment methods in improving glucose metabolism; however, acupuncture had fewer AEs (risk ratio: 0.13, 95 % CrI: 0.01, 0.68). Acupuncture all ranked high in terms of surface under the cumulative ranking curve across all outcomes, thus demonstrating better effectiveness and safety potential.
Conclusions
Acupuncture may be a potential alternative for PCOS women with IR, as it is equally effective, easier to perform, and relatively safer than metformin. Further trials are necessary to confirm these findings owing to the current lack of sufficient evidence.
期刊介绍:
Integrative Medicine Research (IMR) is a quarterly, peer-reviewed journal focused on scientific research for integrative medicine including traditional medicine (emphasis on acupuncture and herbal medicine), complementary and alternative medicine, and systems medicine. The journal includes papers on basic research, clinical research, methodology, theory, computational analysis and modelling, topical reviews, medical history, education and policy based on physiology, pathology, diagnosis and the systems approach in the field of integrative medicine.