Eye movement therapy shows promise for itchy skin conditions

NCT ID NCT06427122

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Tamar Nijsten Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

atopic eczema prurigo nodularis Pruritus

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ATOPIC DERMATITIS PRURIGO NODULARIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Erasmus University Medical Center

Rotterdam, 3015 GD, Netherlands

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