Ear sensor may spot anxiety without needles or surgery

NCT ID NCT03954483

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Manitoba Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study explores whether a non-invasive device placed in the outer ear can detect brain waves linked to anxiety, specifically the hippocampal theta rhythm. Researchers will give 42 healthy volunteers either buspirone, triazolam, or a placebo—drugs known to reduce these brain waves—to see if the ear device picks up the changes. If it works, it could lead to a simple way to diagnose anxiety disorders without invasive procedures.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Buspirone and Triazolam oral tablets
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple, non-invasive way to measure anxiety levels and help diagnose anxiety disorders.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study in healthy volunteers, not patients. It tests a measurement method, not a treatment, so direct benefits are uncertain.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY

Contacts and locations

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Study contacts

Contact

Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact

Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

Riverview Health Centre
RECRUITING

Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3L2P4, Canada

Contact

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