Ear zapper may ease debilitating vomiting episodes

NCT ID NCT03434652

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tested a small device that stimulates nerves in the ear to help people with cyclic vomiting syndrome, a condition causing repeated bouts of severe nausea and vomiting. Forty-seven children and adults used the device either during an episode or daily for six weeks. Researchers measured changes in nausea, vomiting, and pain to see if the device could provide relief.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulator (ear device)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a non-drug option to reduce nausea and vomiting during episodes of cyclic vomiting syndrome.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot study with only 47 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The device may not work better than a sham (placebo) treatment.

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.

cyclic vomiting syndrome Familial cyclic vomiting syndrome migraine disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Children's Hospital of Wisconsin

    Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53226, United States