Ear-Zap gadget aims to melt stress before speeches
NCT ID NCT07470229
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a non-invasive device that gently stimulates a nerve in the ear can reduce stress during performance tasks like public speaking. Two hundred adults will be randomly assigned to receive either active or placebo stimulation while completing a stressful speech or a calm writing task. Researchers will measure self-reported stress and heart rate to see if the device helps people feel calmer under pressure.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) device
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to manage stress in everyday situations like public speaking or exams.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage study with a small, single session. The sham (placebo) group may show similar results, and effects may not last or apply to real-world stress.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for STRESS RESPONSE are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Study contacts
-
Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida, 32611, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can a video calm nerves before a C-Section better than a chat?
- Stress ball may take the edge off biopsy pain
- Botox for stress? tiny study tests the idea
- Video laryngoscopy may reduce stress during breathing tube insertion
- Cranberry juice may boost brainpower and stress resilience
- Cranberry juice may boost brainpower during multitasking, study hints