Efficacy of electroacupuncture in the treatment of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease: study protocol for a multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled trial - Scorecard - MDSpire

Efficacy of electroacupuncture in the treatment of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease: study protocol for a multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled trial

  • By

  • Shiyu Zhu

  • Qinmei Yang

  • Peng Zhang

  • Jiaxin Xu

  • Suyun Li

  • Yang Xie

  • July 13, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Effectiveness of Electroacupuncture for Managing Acute Exacerbations in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Protocol for a Multicenter, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionAcute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AECOPD)
Key MechanismsElectroacupuncture may improve clinical symptoms, enhance lung function, and reduce rehospitalization rates through immune modulation and suppression of inflammatory responses.
Target PopulationPatients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD)
Care SettingMulticenter clinical trial across three hospitals

Key Highlights

  • Study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture in AECOPD.
  • Participants will be randomized to electroacupuncture or sham acupuncture groups.
  • Primary outcome measure is the COPD Assessment Test (CAT).
  • Follow-up period of 13 weeks to assess treatment effects.
  • Trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06869525).

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis of AECOPD characterized by acute deterioration of respiratory symptoms.

Management

  • Conventional management includes pharmacological therapies such as antibiotics, bronchodilators, and inhaled corticosteroids.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor clinical symptoms and signs, exacerbation frequency, and arterial blood gas analysis.

Risks

  • Long-term medication use can lead to adverse effects such as oral candidiasis, osteoporosis, and diabetes.

Patient & Prescribing Data

336 eligible patients with AECOPD will be recruited.

Electroacupuncture treatment protocol will be standardized and administered once daily for 7 days.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Follow the GOLD guidelines for managing COPD.
  • Utilize standardized treatment protocols for electroacupuncture.

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