Treating Addiction with Acupuncture

by Cara Dinote, L.Ac.

Tableof

Contents

Acupuncture for Substance Abuse

Physiological Basis for Drug Addiction

NADA Treatment Protocol

Acupuncture forSubstance Abuse

Treating Addiction With Acupuncture

• Acupuncture combined with substance abuse counseling and group therapy programs is effective for treating drug and alcohol users

• Acupuncture provides a foundation for recovery and psycho-

social rehabilitation

• Acupuncture is a supportive component of a substance abuse treatment as well as in enabling job readiness.

• As a non-verbal intervention, it helps in reaching resistant patients

• It reduces anxiety and agitation while facilitating calm and receptive behavior

• It helps develop an inner meditative core in even the most troubled and fearful persons

Acupuncture Enhances Overall Functioning

The Physiological Basis of Drug

Addiction

Role of Dopamine

• The mesolimbic dopamine system originates in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and projects to regions that include the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex

• Dopamine is believed to be the final common pathway for drugs such as cocaine, morphine and alcohol. 

• Studies show that acupuncture directly or indirectly affects the mesolimbic dopamine system

• These results suggest that acupuncture helps to maintain the homeostasis and balance between positive and negative processes involved in drug addiction 

Role of Neurotransmitters in the Action of Acupuncture

NADA Treatment Protocol

The National Acupuncture Detoxification Association auricular acupuncture protocol is used around the world to help people deal with and recover from substance abuse.

The NADA protocol has been shown in a variety of clinical settings to be beneficial in the process of detoxification from substance abuse as well as to help with the emotional, physical and psychological attributes involved in addictions.

Auricular Acupuncture

The NADA Protocol

At five designated ear points in each auricle (outer ear), NADA-trained clinicians apply fine gauge, sterilized, one-time use stainless steel needles just under the skin, where they remain for up to an hour while the patient (in most circumstances) relaxes quietly in a comfortable chair.

If you or someone you know is currently struggling with substance abuse, and you would

like more information please contact me.

Cara Dinote, L.Ac.• Acupuncturist• Herbalist• Owner of Intuitive Healing Acupuncture

www.intuitivehealingacu.com