Abstract
[Objective] This study aimed to collect, analyse, and examine the literature on adverse events in acupuncture and moxibustionin order to improve safety.[Subjects and Methods] A literature search was conducted using Ichushi Web and PubMed to identify reports of adverse eventsrelated to acupuncture and moxibustion published in domestic and international medical journals from 2020 to 2023. The searchkeywords included 'acupuncture', 'moxibustion', and various terms related to adverse events associated with them.[Results] We identified 33 papers describing acupuncture-related adverse events in Japan. The reported adverse events includedinfections (9 papers), organ injuries (11), neurological injuries (2), dermatological problems (2), and needle breakage, retainedneedles, or foreign bodies (9). We also identified 56 papers reporting adverse events that occurred abroad, including infections(17); organ injuries (23); neurological injuries (1); dermatological problems (6); needle breakage, retained needles or foreignbodies (3); others (4); and moxibustion-related adverse events (2).[Conclusion] Consistent with previous surveys, various adverse events related to acupuncture and moxibustion occurred bothdomestically and internationally. These findings highlight the importance of learning from the reported cases and implementingsafety education on acupuncture and moxibustion.Zen Nihon Shinkyu Gakkai Zasshi (Journal of the Japan Society of Acupuncture and Moxibustion: JJSAM).2025; 75(4): 442-462. Received 29 Jun, 2025 Accepted 13 Jul, 2025
