The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as a viable form of treatment for many medical conditions, although western physicians are still cautious to recommend it due in part to the sparse scientific empirical evidence validating its benefits. The present study evaluated the benefits of adding acupuncture (three mornings per week for four weeks, for 45 minutes per session) to a 21-day outpatient structured psychoeducational treatment program (treatment as usual -TAU) in a sample of 305 women with concurrent substance use problems, anxiety, and depression.

Women were assigned to either the TAU or the TAU plus acupuncture -TAUAC condition. Participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Drug-Taking Confidence Questionnaire, and Reflective Activity Scale at pre- and post-treatment and at one- and three-months follow-up.

At post treatment and follow-up, women in the TAUAC condition reported greater reduced physiological cravings for substances, reduced depression, anxiety, and better ability to reflect on and resolve difficulties than women in the TAU comparison group. Results also suggested that women were more receptive to receiving acupuncture as an adjunct treatment for substance use than previously realized by some physicians. Reported side-effects from acupuncture were minimal and overall patient satisfaction was high.

Auricular acupuncture, as an adjunct therapy to a comprehensive psychoeducational treatment program for women with addictions can be an effective method to reduce cravings, improve overall health and general functioning, and be a potentially safer, more viable treatment alternative to anxiolytics. Suggestions for future research will be presented.