Six randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the review (n=641 participants).
Endoscopy without pharmacotherapy - group A (380 patients, three RCTs): There was a statistically significant reduction in anxiety levels, as measured by the state-trait anxiety inventory, in patients receiving music therapy compared with the control group (standardised mean difference -0.29, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.5 to -0.09).
Endoscopy with pharmacotherapy - group B (261 patients, three RCTs): The sedation requirements for the music intervention were not statistically significantly different from those of the control group. Analgesia requirements were statistically significantly reduced for patients receiving the music intervention compared with the control group (standardised mean difference -0.77, 95% CI: -1.2 to -0.31). Procedure duration was statistically significantly reduced for patients with the music intervention compared with the control group (standardised mean difference -0.38, 95% CI: -0.63 to -0.14).