The Alternative Effects of Electroacupuncture in the Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Launched by YUANYUAN WU · May 11, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating the use of electroacupuncture (a form of acupuncture that uses small electrical currents) as a treatment for trigeminal neuralgia (TN), a painful condition that affects the face. TN can be very challenging to manage, often causing anxiety and impacting a person's overall quality of life. While the standard medication for this condition is carbamazepine, it can have side effects and may not work for everyone. This study aims to see if electroacupuncture can be an effective alternative treatment for people struggling with TN.

To participate in the trial, individuals should be between 18 and 75 years old and currently taking carbamazepine or a similar medication. They must also have a confirmed diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia. Participants will be expected to give their consent to be part of the study and will need to be able to communicate about their pain. The trial is not yet recruiting participants, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for updates if you or someone you know is interested in this treatment option.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Participants must meet all of the following criteria to be eligible for this study
• • 1. Met the diagnostic criteria for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) as defined in the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3) published by the International Headache Society (IHS) in 2018.
• • 2. Between 18 and 75 years old (inclusive), regardless of gender;
• • 3. Currently prescribed carbamazepine (100-300 mg/day) or oxcarbazepine (200-600 mg/day);
• • 4. Conscious, alert, and capable of perceiving/differentiating pain, with basic communication abilities;
• • 5. Signed informed consent form and voluntary participation in the study.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients meeting any of the following criteria were excluded
• • 1. Patients with epilepsy, head injury, or other relevant neurological disorders;
• • 2. Patients with severe cardiac, hepatic, or renal impairment;
• • 3. Patients with cognitive dysfunction, aphasia, psychiatric disorders, or those unable to cooperate with treatment;
• • 4. Patients with poorly controlled hypertension or hyperglycemia;
• • 5. Patients with a recent diagnosis of severe anxiety or depression;
• • 6. Pregnant or breastfeeding patients;