Ear-Zap device aims to boost weight loss in stubborn obesity

NCT ID NCT07630597

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests a device that gently stimulates a nerve in the ear (taVNS) to help overweight or obese people who didn't lose much weight after 12 weeks of diet and exercise. 24 participants will get either real or sham stimulation twice daily for 12 more weeks, while continuing lifestyle changes. The goal is to see if the device leads to greater weight loss and improvements in body composition and metabolism.

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) device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new, non-invasive option to help people with obesity who struggle to lose weight through lifestyle changes alone.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early pilot study with only 24 participants. The effect may be small or no better than sham stimulation, and results may not apply to everyone.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Obesity obesity disorder Overweight

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • Department of Endocrinology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School

    RECRUITING

    Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China

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

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