Acupuncture and yoga may help seniors taper off benzodiazepines

NCT ID NCT06197243

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This 12-week study tested whether combining acupuncture, yoga, and gradual medication reduction can help adults aged 65 and older lower their use of benzodiazepines (medications for anxiety and insomnia). Twenty-three participants received weekly acupuncture, private yoga classes, and medical supervision to taper their medication. Researchers measured changes in medication dose, sleep quality, and anxiety levels through surveys and focus groups.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: acupuncture and yoga
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a non-drug way to help older adults reduce their reliance on benzodiazepines for anxiety and insomnia.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 23 participants and no control group, so results may not apply widely. The benefits of acupuncture and yoga for deprescribing are not yet proven.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder insomnia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANXIETY BENZODIAZEPINE DEPRESCRIPTION INSOMNIA

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Osher Center for Integrative Health at Vanderbilt

Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, United States

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