Ear zap device tested for chemo nausea in kids – but study stopped early

NCT ID NCT05143554

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: Medical College of Wisconsin Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a small device that stimulates a nerve in the ear to see if it can reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy in children, teens, and young adults. The device, called IBStim, was compared to a sham (fake) device. The trial was terminated early and included only 18 participants, so the results are not strong enough to draw clear conclusions.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: auricular percutaneous neurostimulation (IBStim device)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in young patients.
What could go wrong: The trial was terminated early and enrolled only 18 people, so results are very limited. It is unclear if the device works better than a sham treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chemotherapy-induced toxicity Vomiting

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CHEMOTHERAPY-INDUCED NAUSEA AND VOMITING

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Wisconsin Hospital

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53226, United States

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