In a retrospective comparison of 745 patients, laser acupuncture users lost more weight than liraglutide users over 180 days, though the study design has significant limitations.
5.82 vs 2.38 kgweight loss at 180 days for laser acupuncture versus liraglutide users, though self-selection bias limits interpretation
What the researchers found
Laser acupuncture users lost an average of 5.82 kg versus 2.38 kg with liraglutide over 180 days, with the difference remaining significant after adjusting for baseline differences.
Why it matters
GLP-1 receptor agonists like liraglutide are widely used for weight management, but not all patients respond well or tolerate side effects. Understanding how these peptide drugs compare to alternative approaches helps inform treatment decisions.
The numbers in context
Data from 2013-2018 analyzed with primary outcomes measured at 180 days post-treatment.
How the study worked
Multi-institutional retrospective cohort study using the Chang Gung Research Database (2013-2018). Compared 173 laser acupuncture users with 572 liraglutide users. Primary outcomes: body weight and BMI changes at 180 days. Secondary outcomes: proportion achieving 5%, 10%, and 15% weight loss. Statistical adjustments made for baseline differences.
Who was studied
Obese patients from the Chang Gung Research Database (2013-2018)
What this study cannot tell us
Retrospective design with significant self-selection bias — patients choosing acupuncture versus medication likely differ in motivation, lifestyle, and other factors. No randomization or blinding. Database study lacks detailed clinical context such as diet, exercise, and compliance. Liraglutide dosing details not specified. The liraglutide doses used (2013-2018) may not reflect current optimal protocols.
How to read the evidence
Moderate evidence: large multi-institutional cohort with statistical adjustments, but retrospective design with significant self-selection bias prevents causal conclusions.
When this study was published
Published in 2024, but uses data from 2013-2018 — predating newer GLP-1 drugs and optimized dosing protocols.
The bigger picture
While GLP-1 peptide drugs dominate the weight loss landscape, this study raises questions about comparative effectiveness with non-pharmacological approaches. However, the retrospective design and self-selection bias mean these results should be interpreted cautiously — randomized controlled trials are needed to make fair comparisons.
Questions still open
- Would a randomized controlled trial confirm laser acupuncture superiority over liraglutide for weight loss?
- Could combining laser acupuncture with GLP-1 peptide drugs produce better results than either alone?
- How do these results compare with newer, more potent GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Common questions
Does this mean liraglutide does not work for weight loss?
Should I try laser acupuncture instead of GLP-1 peptides?
Read the original research
Laser Acupuncture versus Liraglutide in Treatment of Obesity: A Multi-Institutional Retrospective Cohort Study.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 12(13)
Citation
Yu, Wen-Lin; Liao, Yu-Ning; Yang, Tsung-Hsien; Yang, Ching-Wei; Kao, Ting-I; Lee, Pai-Wei; Hsu, Chiu-Yi; Huang, Jhen-Ling; Huang, Yu-Tung; Chen, Hsing-Yu. (2024). Laser Acupuncture versus Liraglutide in Treatment of Obesity: A Multi-Institutional Retrospective Cohort Study.. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 12(13). https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12131279