Effectiveness and safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for psychiatric disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Huda F Al-Shamali, Kirandeep Shocker, Jahnvi Thakkar et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness and safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in adults with psychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), PTSD, and anxiety. Among 17 studies involving 920 participants, HBOT showed a large pooled effect on depressive symptoms (Cohen's d = -0.82), particularly at 2.0 ATA. Adverse events were mild and transient.
Key findings
- HBOT demonstrated a large effect on depressive symptoms with Cohen's d = -0.82.
- A robust benefit was observed at 2.0 ATA with Cohen's d = -0.93.
- In PTSD, two sham-controlled RCTs showed a large effect with Cohen's d = -1.96.
- Adverse events were mild, primarily ear discomfort and brief anxiety.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that HBOT may offer a novel treatment option for patients with difficult-to-treat psychiatric disorders, potentially improving symptom management. However, the evidence is preliminary and highlights the need for further research.
What to keep in mind
Most studies included were small, and the evidence remains preliminary with variable effects and heterogeneous estimates.