Scientists map vagus nerve stimulation to reduce side effects in epilepsy

NCT ID NCT05395026

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Duke University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested different settings of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in 16 adults with epilepsy who were already scheduled for VNS device surgery. Researchers measured how stimulation affected heart rate and throat muscle contractions to find ways to reduce side effects. The goal is to improve future VNS programming for better epilepsy control with fewer discomforts.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors fine-tune VNS devices to reduce side effects like throat muscle contractions and heart rate changes.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 16 participants, focused on measuring effects rather than testing a new treatment. Results may not apply to all epilepsy patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for EPILEPSY are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

epilepsy

As listed by the trial registrant

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

EPILEPSY

Contacts and locations

Show contact details

Locations

Duke University Medical Center

Durham, North Carolina, 27710, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.