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.

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.

irritable bowel syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • West Virginia University- Gastroenterology and Hepatology

    Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, United States

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

    Contact