Ear nerve zap may calm IBS constipation symptoms
NCT ID NCT07662083
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether a non-invasive device that gently stimulates a nerve in the ear can improve symptoms and quality of life for adults with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C). Participants use an ear clip for 30 minutes daily over 60 days. The trial compares active stimulation to a sham device to see if the treatment reduces pain, bloating, and bowel discomfort.
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 (ta-VNS) device
- What this could lead to
- If effective, this could offer a drug-free, at-home option to reduce abdominal pain and bloating for people with constipation-predominant IBS.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage trial with 80 participants. The sham device may produce similar effects, and individual results may vary.
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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
Locations
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West Virginia University- Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, United States
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