Ear device zaps nerves to tame stubborn high blood pressure?

NCT ID NCT05179343

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Queen Mary University of London Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This pilot study tested a device that sends mild electrical pulses to a nerve in the ear, aiming to lower blood pressure in people whose hypertension is not controlled by medication. 63 adults took part, and the device was compared to a sham (fake) version. The goal was to see if the treatment is safe, acceptable, and effective at reducing daytime blood pressure.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: AffeX-CT device (trans-cutaneous vagal nerve stimulation)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new non-drug option to help control high blood pressure.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study, so results may not apply to everyone. The device may not lower blood pressure enough to be useful, and long-term effects are unknown.

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.

hypertensive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE UNCONTROLLED HYPERTENSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Barts Health NHS Trust

London, E1 1FR, United Kingdom

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.