Ear nerve zaps could curb drug cravings in small trial

NCT ID NCT07689981

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: Shanghai Mental Health Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a gentle electrical stimulation of a nerve in the ear (called taVNS) can help people who are dependent on the drug tiletamine. Thirty participants will receive either real or sham stimulation over five days. Researchers will measure changes in cravings, mood, stress, and brain activity to see if the treatment works and how it might help.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug treatment for substance use disorders, helping reduce cravings and improve mood.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early trial with only 30 people. The effect may be small or no different from sham stimulation, and results may not apply to other substances.

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.

Behavior, Addictive substance-related disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DRUG CRAVING SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER (SUD) TILETAMINE USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

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Study contacts

Contact

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

Locations

Shanghai Mental Health Center

Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, 200030, China

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

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