Prof. Ernst reviewed its value for treating or preventing allergic rhinitis.

First, the details.

• Among 115 studies, 12 were worth reviewing.
• 7 studies were of high quality.
• All evaluated the effectiveness of acupuncture on allergic rhinitis symptoms, none on its curative value.

And, the results.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis

• 3 studies failed to show superiority of acupuncture for treating or preventing symptoms vs placebo acupuncture.

Perennial allergic rhinitis

• 1 study reported favorable effects of acupuncture on rhinitis symptoms.
• 1 found positive results for a nasal symptoms vs placebo acupuncture.

Acupuncture vs drugs

• 2 studies reported favorable results with acupuncture.

The bottom line?
There was no evidence of benefit in seasonal allergic rhinitis. For perennial allergic rhinitis, the results suggest acupuncture is effective.

6/13/09 13:46 JR