As part of a withdrawal process, acupuncture and auriculotherapy may be proposed as supportive approaches to help with certain symptoms, cravings or periods of tension. They are integrated into an overall care plan adapted to the type of addiction and the patient's situation.
Understanding smoking cessation and addictions
Addiction involves biological, psychological, behavioural and social mechanisms. For tobacco as well as other substances, management is based on medical assessment, structured support and treatments with demonstrated effectiveness.
Assessing risks and needs.
The physician reviews substance use, previous quit attempts, withdrawal symptoms, possible treatments and associated risks. For alcohol, certain medications or other substances, withdrawal may be dangerous and require specialist supervision.
What is the role of acupuncture and auriculotherapy?
During withdrawal, they may be proposed as complementary approaches to help manage certain symptoms, including cravings to smoke, irritability, stress or sleep problems. Their relevance is assessed with the physician according to the patient's needs and progress.
A comprehensive approach.
Behavioural support, nicotine replacement therapy or other treatments may be combined with acupuncture when indicated. The physician adapts the strategy according to the degree of dependence, withdrawal symptoms and difficulties encountered.
In which situations may acupuncture support withdrawal?
The situations below illustrate different contexts in which acupuncture or auriculotherapy may be integrated into a withdrawal process. Their role depends on the type of addiction, symptoms, associated treatments and the medical follow-up required.
Smoking cessation
When stopping smoking, acupuncture and auriculotherapy may be proposed to support the withdrawal process, particularly when the patient is looking for help with cravings, stress or certain withdrawal symptoms. They may be combined with other recommended measures.
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms
Irritability, cravings, stress or sleep problems are common during nicotine withdrawal. Acupuncture may be proposed for some patients to help manage these symptoms and improve comfort during this period.
Preventing relapse to smoking
After smoking cessation, acupuncture may continue to be proposed as support during periods when cravings, stress or the risk of relapse are greater. It may be integrated into follow-up and strategies used to consolidate smoking cessation.
Dependence on certain medications
When withdrawing from certain medications, acupuncture may be considered to help manage certain symptoms or periods of discomfort. However, dose reduction must remain gradual and medically supervised, as some withdrawal processes may involve risks.
Other addictions requiring specialist support
In alcohol or other substance addictions, acupuncture may potentially be integrated as a complementary approach to help manage certain symptoms or improve comfort. It must be part of appropriate medical and psychosocial care, as some withdrawal processes can lead to serious complications.
Questions fréquentes
Vous vous posez encore des questions ? Retrouvez les réponses aux interrogations les plus fréquentes concernant cette indication, le déroulement d'une consultation et la place de l'acupuncture dans une prise en charge médicale.
Can acupuncture help with stopping smoking?
Yes. Acupuncture or auriculotherapy may be proposed as support in a smoking cessation programme. They may in particular help with cravings, stress, irritability or certain other withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the situation, they may be combined with behavioural support, nicotine replacement therapy or other treatments.
Does acupuncture replace nicotine replacement therapy or withdrawal medications?
No. When nicotine replacement therapy or other treatments are indicated, acupuncture may be used as a complement. The physician adapts the different approaches according to the degree of dependence, symptoms and response to treatment.
Can acupuncture be used for alcohol or other substance addiction?
Acupuncture may potentially be used as complementary support in certain withdrawal programmes, particularly to help manage certain symptoms or periods of discomfort. Alcohol or other substance addictions nevertheless require appropriate medical and psychosocial care, as some withdrawal processes can cause serious complications.
How many sessions are needed during a withdrawal programme?
The number and frequency of sessions are adapted to the type of addiction, withdrawal symptoms and the patient's progress. The physician regularly reassesses the situation in order to adapt support according to the difficulties encountered and the goals that have been set.
Can acupuncture be combined with another treatment?
Yes. Acupuncture may be combined with other treatments and therapeutic measures when indicated. The physician adapts the different approaches according to the diagnosis, symptoms and the patient’s progression.
When should someone seek prompt medical attention during addiction or withdrawal?
Confusion, seizures, hallucinations, severe agitation, chest pain, breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness, suicidal thoughts or any rapid worsening require urgent medical assessment. Withdrawal from alcohol, tranquillisers or other substances should not be attempted without medical advice when there is a risk of complications.
Pour poursuivre
votre lecture
Comprenez la démarche du médecin acupuncteur, explorez les autres familles d’indications ou trouvez un praticien membre de l’ABMA.
Trouvez
votre médecin
acupuncteur
Browse the list of ABMA and UPMAB members across Belgium.