Roscoe, J.A., Morrow, G.R., Matteson, S., Bushunow, P., & Tian, L. (2002). Acustimulation wristbands for the relief of chemotherapy-induced nausea. Alternative Therapies, 8 (4), 56-63.

This randomized controlled trial used a three-level crossover design (active acustimulation, sham acustimulation, and no acustimulation). All patients received standard antiemetics ordered by the physician. Patients wore a wristband before chemotherapy and as needed. Patients could adjust the stimulation intensity.

• The study consisted of 27 patients (25 women, 2 men).
• The mean age of patient was 49.7 years.
• Most patients were Caucasian, one was African American, and one was Asian.
• Cancer diagnoses were breast (81%), colorectal (11%), ovarian (4%), and lung (4%).
• Patients who had previously experienced moderate or more severe nausea following their first chemotherapy treatment were screened for the study.
• Patients were scheduled to receive at least three more chemotherapy treatments without radiotherapy or interferon.

The study was conducted at three outpatient oncology clinics in the northeastern United States.

The study was a randomized clinical trial using a three-level crossover design (active acustimulation, sham acustimulation, and no acustimulation).

• Using patient diaries, patients reported on the severity of nausea for each period (morning, afternoon, evening, night) on the day of treatment and on the following four days.
• Severity of nausea was assessed on a seven-point rating scale.
• Patients also reported on the type and total number of antiemetic pills taken on days 1–5.

No statistical differences in average severity of nausea were observed between the interventions. A nearly significant difference was found in the severity of delayed nausea reported during active acustimulation compared to no acustimulation.

Findings were positive but not conclusive.

• The sample size was small, and data were missing.
• The study did not account for medication changes (antiemetics).
• The wristband may have caused a placebo effect. Mood elevation may be possible with nerve stimulation and the release of endorphins.

Caution should be used in patients with pacemakers.