Could a neck device curb opioid withdrawal?

NCT ID NCT05834478

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Emory University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a non-invasive device that stimulates the vagus nerve in the neck can reduce withdrawal symptoms in people with opioid use disorder. About 103 participants will stay in the hospital for a week, receive either active or sham stimulation, and have brain scans. The goal is to see if the device makes withdrawal less severe and helps people stick with treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcutaneous cervical vagal nerve stimulation (tcVNS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and help people stay in treatment.
What could go wrong: This is still a small, early-phase trial with only 103 participants, and the device may not work better than a sham. The study also requires an inpatient stay and MRI, which may limit who can take part.

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.

opiate dependence opioid abuse substance withdrawal syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OPIOID USE OPIOID-USE DISORDER WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

Contacts and locations

Locations

12 Executive Park Drive
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30329, United States
Emory University
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30329, United States
Emory University Clinical Research Network
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
Georgia Institute of Technology
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30332, United States
Health Sciences Research Building
NOT_YET_RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
Rollins School of Public Health
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States

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