Acupuncture Versus Western Medicine for Perimenopausal Syndrome:A Systematic Review

Objective:To assess the efficacy and safety of acupuncture versus western medicine in the treatment of perimenopausal syndrome.Methods:Randomized controlled trials(RCTs)involving acupuncture versus western medicine in the treatment of perimenopausal syndrome were identified from CBM(1979 to 2009),CNKI(1979 to 2009),VIP(1989 to 2009),WF(1998 to 2009),Pubmed(1966 to 2009),Embase(1980 to 2009)and Cochrane Library(Issue 3,2009).We also hand searched relevant journals from Tianjin university of TCM.Data were extracted and evaluated by two reviewers independently with a specially designed extraction form.The Cochrane Collaboration's RevMan 5.0.20 software was used for data analyses.Results:A total of 19 trials were included,which involving 12 cases of perimenopausal syndrome,6 cases of perimenopausal depression and 1 case of perimenopausal dry-eye syndrome.Meta-analyses showed that the Kupperman scores of perimenopausal syndrome in the acupuncture group was similar when compared with Nilestyiol at 4w and 12w,Livial,Tibolone,but showing difference between acupuncture and Oryzanolat 4w,or Nilestyiolat 8w,or Premarin.As for the total effect rate of Kupperman,no significant difference was noted between acupuncture and Estradiol at 12w,or Tibolone,Nilestriol,Livial,Premarin,but difference between acupuncture and Oryzanol observed at 4w.As for the E2 in blood,difference were noted between acupuncture and Estradiolat 12w,or Livialat 4w,or Oryzanol,Premarin,Tibolone,but no significant difference between acupuncture and Livialat 12w.In terms of the perimenopausal depression and perimenopausal dry-eye syndrome,according to the different contrast and measuring index,the results showed difference.Conclusion:Acupuncture is inferior to western medicine,and it is worth noting that acupuncture is associated with few adverse reactions.Further large-scale trials are required to define the role of acupuncture in the treatment of perimenopausal syndrome,perimenopausal depression and perimenopausal dry-eye syndrome.