bee venom acupuncture

Bee venom acupuncture (BVA), also known as apipuncture or pharmacopuncture, is a therapeutic intervention that involves the subcutaneous injection of diluted bee venom into specific acupuncture points. This specific protocol, investigated by Kyunghee University Medical Center for chronic non-specific low back pain, utilizes dried bee venom powder (derived from honeybees, *Apis mellifera*) diluted 1:20,000 in normal saline. The pharmacological action is primarily attributed to melittin, a bioactive peptide that constitutes approximately 50% of the venom and exerts potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Melittin inhibits the NF-kappaB signaling pathway, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1B). The treatment protocol typically involves an incremental dosing schedule (e.g., 0.2cc to 0.8cc) over several weeks. The therapy aims to provide relief through both the biochemical action of the venom components and the mechanical stimulation of traditional acupuncture points. Clinical evaluation (NCT01491321) has focused on its efficacy in improving pain intensity and functional status in patients with chronic low back pain, often as an adjunct to standard NSAID therapy.

Other names

bee venom pharmacopunctureapipuncturebee venom injection