Ear seeds could help psychiatric patients kick smoking withdrawal symptoms

NCT ID NCT07466875

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Chiao-Chiao Liao Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This pilot study tests whether adding ear acupressure (small seeds taped to ear points) to standard nicotine patches or gum can reduce cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and anxiety in psychiatric inpatients who must stop smoking during their hospital stay. Sixty participants will be randomly assigned to receive either real ear seeds or sham seeds for 28 days. Researchers will measure changes in craving, withdrawal severity, and anxiety levels to see if the ear stimulation provides extra relief.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: auricular acupressure (ear seeds) plus nicotine replacement therapy (patches or gum)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, low-cost add-on to help psychiatric patients manage nicotine withdrawal and anxiety during hospital stays.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study (60 people) testing feasibility, not proof of effectiveness. The sham control group may also show benefits, and results may not apply to non-psychiatric or outpatient settings.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder mental disorder nicotine dependence psychiatric disorder substance withdrawal syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY MENTAL DISORDERS NICOTINE DEPENDENCE NICOTINE WITHDRAWAL TOBACCO USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Tsaotun Psychiatric Center, Ministry of Health and Welfare
RECRUITING

Nantou City, 542, Taiwan

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