Can a zap in the ear silence the ringing? new trial aims to find out

NCT ID NCT03511807

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether combining sound therapy with mild electrical stimulation inside the ear can reduce or temporarily stop tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Researchers will enroll 100 adults who have had tinnitus for at least 6 months. Participants will listen to sounds and receive electrical pulses through an ear canal electrode, a tiny needle through the eardrum, or a cochlear implant. The goal is to find a way to calm the phantom noise and improve quality of life.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

acoustic and electrical stimulation

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to a non-drug device that temporarily reduces or eliminates tinnitus ringing, improving daily life for millions.

What could go wrong

This is an early exploratory study with no phase, small sample size, and subjective outcomes. The effects may be temporary or not work for everyone.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

tinnitus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Hamid R. Djalilian

    RECRUITING

    Irvine, California, 92612, United States

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••