Can a zap to the ear tame sepsis?

NCT ID NCT03992378

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: University of Oklahoma Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests whether a mild electrical pulse to the ear (vagus nerve stimulation) can reduce inflammation and improve heart rate balance in people with septic shock. 34 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either active stimulation or a sham (placebo) for 4 hours, alongside standard care. The goal is to see if this approach lowers inflammatory markers and improves a sepsis severity score.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Low-level transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (a device that delivers mild electrical pulses to the ear)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to calm inflammation and improve outcomes in sepsis.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small pilot study with only 34 participants. It tests a short 4-hour stimulation, so any benefits may be temporary or not seen at all.

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.

Sepsis toxic shock syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SEPTIC SHOCK

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
RECRUITING

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73104, United States

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