Auricular Acupuncture to Facilitate Outpatient Opioid Weaning

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Auricular Acupuncture to Facilitate Outpatient Opioid Weaning

This study is to compare two groups undergoing opioid weaning as ordered by their referring physicians. One group will undergo the standard opioid weaning process and the other group will have the addition of the NADA Protocol to the weaning process.

The NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) Protocol is a standardized acupuncture technique in which five designated points in the ear are needled (+/-beads/seeds at points for home acupressure therapy in between treatments). The NADA Protocol is indicated for treatment of the following conditions: detoxification, withdrawal, emotional trauma, craving, stress syndromes, relapse prevention, rehabilitation & recovery maintenance. It is also commonly used for PTSD and addiction; however it has not been studied as an adjunct to outpatient opioid weaning protocols for pain.

It is cited in the literature as yielding improvements in engagement, retention, decreased cravings, anxiety, and physical symptoms. Given these documented results, it seems feasible the outpatient opioid weaning patient would likely benefit from this procedure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 and older
• Referral to the VUMC Interventional Pain Clinic for opioid weaning and discontinuation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• None