Acupuncture for Post COVID-19 Fatigue

The Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture for Post COVID-19 Fatigue: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of the study is to access the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for post COVID-19 fatigue.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged between 18 and 75.
• Confirmed COVID-19 infection in the past four weeks to six months, and a negative RT PCR and/or Antigen-Based Rapid Test at present.
• A main complaint of fatigue emerged newly following COVID-19 infection.
• A score of ≥15 on Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS, score range 0-33).
• Participating the trial volunteerly and providing written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe anxiety and depression: a score of ≥25 on 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD-17) and/or a score scores >29 on 14-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAMA-14).
• Significant cognitive dysfunction or suicidal tendency.
• Usage of anti-anxiety and/or anti-depression treatments over the last three months.
• Previously diagnosed hypothyroidism or chronic fatigue syndrome.
• A complication of serious and poorly controlled underlying diseases.
• Having symptoms indicating emergency or severe conditions.
• Concurrent use of other anti-fatigue agents or treatments at present.
• Impaired walking ability.
• Pregnant and/or lactating or planning to get pregnant in the next 4 months.