Alpha-Stim AID for anxiety disorders
Closed for comments This consultation ended on at Request commenting lead permission
1 Recommendations
1.1 Alpha-Stim AID shows promise for managing anxiety disorders. However, there is not enough good quality evidence to support the case for routine adoption in the NHS.
1.2 Research is recommended to address uncertainties about
the short- and long-term efficacy of Alpha-Stim AID,
its position in the care pathway for treating anxiety disorders and
its resource impact.
This research should include a randomised controlled trial that compares Alpha-Stim AID with current treatment options such as individual cognitive behavioural therapy, or medication, or both. Find out details of the research recommended in section 4.
Why the committee made these recommendations
Anxiety disorders are treated using a range of interventions including cognitive behavioural therapy, or medication, or both. Alpha-Stim AID uses an electric current intended to generate calming brain waves, which may relieve anxiety symptoms.
Clinical trial evidence shows that Alpha-Stim AID can relieve anxiety symptoms in people with anxiety disorders. But it is not clear how this happens and how much benefit people get. Also, the evidence is of low quality. How long any benefit lasts is unclear because most of the trials lasted for only 5 or 6 weeks. There is also no evidence comparing Alpha-Stim AID with individual cognitive behavioural therapy or medication.
The effect of adopting Alpha-Stim AID on costs and resources is unclear because its clinical effectiveness and its position in the care pathway are uncertain. Alpha-Stim AID is not recommended for routine adoption and further research is needed.
How are you taking part in this consultation?
You will not be able to change how you comment later.
You must be signed in to answer questions