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TC-06

A review of literature and future perspectives: Acupoint injection as a

potential complementary approach for Multiple Sclerosis

3
#,1
Nguyen The Anh, Chuan-Teng Liu, Ying-Chyi Song, Hung-Rong Yen* ,1,2,4
2

1 Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical
University, Taichung 404328, Taiwan
2 Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Department of Medical Research, China
Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
3 Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical
University, Taichung 404328, Taiwan
4 Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327,
Taiwan
* E-mail: hungrongyen@mail.cmu.edu.tw

Abstract:
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system
(CNS), characterized by demyelination and neuroinflammation leading to progressive
neurological dysfunction. Despite advances in disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), many
patients experience suboptimal responses, adverse effects, and limited options for long-term
symptom management. Acupoint injection, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique
that integrates the meridian-regulating effects of acupuncture with the pharmacological actions
of herbal extracts, has emerged as a potential complementary approach. A scope review of
literature was conducted across multiple scientific databases to evaluate the application,
efficacy, and safety of acupoint injection in MS management. Evidence for acupoint injection
in MS is scarce and inconsistent. Most studies are limited to case reports and small-scale clinical
trials, with considerable variability in herbal formulations, dosages, and acupoint selection. The
absence of standardized protocols prevents definitive conclusions regarding its efficacy and
safety. Well-designed, large-scale clinical trials using standardized herbal preparations and
acupoint protocols are urgently needed. Mechanistic studies may further clarify the potential
role of acupoint injection as an adjunctive therapy for MS, especially for patients who respond
inadequately to conventional treatments.

Keyword: Multiple Sclerosis; Acupoint Injection; Herbal Extract; Pharmacoacupuncture;
Literature Review