Cure8 research brief
The report suggests adding acupuncture to anti-TNF therapy may improve short-term symptom control and mucosal healing and reduce early colectomy risk for a TCM-defined subgroup of ulcerative colitis patients, which could interest people seeking complementary approaches alongside biologics.
Adult patients with ulcerative colitis, clinicians prescribing anti-TNF biologics, and researchers of integrative IBD treatments
This study reviewed 90 patients treated between 2020 and 2024 classified as having “spleen-kidney yang deficiency” and compared outcomes for those who received anti-TNF therapy alone versus anti-TNF plus acupuncture.
Core outcomes (Mayo score, mucosal healing defined by Mayo endoscopic subscore ≤1, clinical remission, and colectomy) were assessed at 12 weeks. The authors report improvements in symptoms and endoscopic healing and a lower short-term colectomy rate in the acupuncture-plus-anti-TNF group, with no increase in serious adverse events.
The study is retrospective, single-center, and uses a specific TCM diagnostic subgroup, which affects how broadly the findings can be applied. The authors themselves call for larger, prospective trials to confirm these results.
Retrospective, single-center design and use of a traditional Chinese medicine subgroup limit generalizability and causal conclusions. The authors recommend larger prospective trials.
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
This Cure8 brief is based on source text from the linked article. Cure8 is informational only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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