Electric zaps to the forehead may help restore lost sense of smell

NCT ID NCT07689773

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Medical University of South Carolina Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether combining a mild electrical nerve stimulation on the forehead with standard smell training can improve smell function in adults with smell loss. Participants use a small device at home for 8 weeks while smelling four different odors. Researchers measure changes in smell ability, mood, sleep, and quality of life.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Trigeminal nerve stimulation-enhanced smell training
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new at-home treatment to help people regain their sense of smell and improve quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study without a placebo group, so results may not prove the treatment works. The nerve stimulation may cause mild discomfort or skin irritation.

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

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