A recent publication in the prestigious Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology cites the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acupuncture was shown to be more effective in reducing regurgitation and heartburn than doubling medication Acupuncture & GERDlevels for patients suffering from cases of refractory GERD. Dr. Ronnie Fass, MD of the University of Arizona in Tuscon reported that refractory GERD affects up to approximately one-third of patients who take PPIs (proton pump inhibitors). PPIs are pharmaceuticals that inhibit gastric acid production and include brand names such as Prilosec, Lomac, Prevacid, Nexium, and Protonix. Regarding the acupuncture research cited in the publication, Dr. Fass notes that, “This is the first study to suggest that alternative approaches for treating visceral pain may have a role in GERD patients with persistent heartburn despite PPI therapy.” Dr. Fass reported that for the approximately one-third of patients taking PPIs who continue to suffer from GERD, “When compared to doubling the PPI dose (standard of care), adding acupuncture was significantly better in controlling regurgitation and daytime as well as night-time heartburn.”

Reference:
Fass, R. (2012), Therapeutic options for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 27: 3–7. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2012.07064.x