Eye movement therapy shows promise for itchy skin conditions
NCT ID NCT06427122
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested a behavioral therapy called EMD-U in 96 adults with atopic dermatitis or prurigo nodularis who had a strong urge to scratch. The therapy involves focusing on the itchy spot while moving the eyes, repeated until the urge fades. Researchers compared EMD-U plus usual care to usual care alone, measuring quality of life and skin severity over 6 months.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
EMD Protocol for Urge (EMD-U) - a behavioral therapy using eye movements to reduce the urge to scratch
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to help people with eczema or prurigo nodularis control their scratching and feel better day-to-day.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed trial with only 96 participants. The therapy is behavioral, so results may vary widely, and it may not work for everyone or replace standard treatments.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Erasmus University Medical Center
Rotterdam, 3015 GD, Netherlands