ON THE PULSE
Highlights on biomedical research
Network Meta-Analysis on Non-Pharmacological Interventions for SUD2
BY:
Michelle Lee
A network meta-analysis of 117 randomised controlled trials across 25 countries evaluated the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions on anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QoL) in 11,177 individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs). The study found that several interventions, including neuromodulation, mind-body therapy, and acupuncture, effectively reduced short-term anxiety and depressive symptoms compared to controls. SUCRA rankings identified neuromodulation as the top-ranked option for anxiety and QoL, while mind-body therapy performed best for depression. However, short-term benefits for QoL remained uncertain. Selection of interventions should integrate these rankings with feasibility, local capacity, and patient preferences.
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