Can a zap to the neck help smokers quit? new trial tests nerve stimulator
NCT ID NCT07487818
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a handheld device that gently stimulates the vagus nerve in the neck, combined with a nicotine patch, can help people stop smoking. Researchers at Mayo Clinic will enroll 150 motivated smokers who smoke at least 10 cigarettes a day. Participants use the device twice daily and wear a nicotine patch for 12 weeks, with quit rates checked by breath tests.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator plus nicotine replacement patches
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a new, drug-free way to boost quit rates for smokers who struggle with cravings.
What could go wrong
This is an early-to-mid-stage trial with only 150 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The device is new for this use, and side effects or lack of benefit are possible.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Mayo Clinic in Rochester
RECRUITINGRochester, Minnesota, 55905, United States
Contact
Contact
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••