Ear zaps could tame tummy troubles: scientists test Nerve-Stimulating device
NCT ID NCT04206540
First seen Mar 12, 2026 · Last updated Jun 22, 2026 · Updated 21 times
Summary
This study tests whether a mild electrical current applied to the ear can activate the vagus nerve, which controls stomach function. Thirty healthy volunteers will receive ear stimulation and perform simple maneuvers like coughing. Researchers will measure nerve activity and stomach signals to see if this non-invasive approach could one day treat nausea and digestive disorders.
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This is a summary of
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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Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Indiana University Hosptial
Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States
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 (device)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could help develop a non-invasive way to treat nausea, vomiting, and stomach disorders by stimulating the vagus nerve through the ear.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small study in healthy people, not patients. It only measures nerve activity, not treatment effects, so it may not lead to any therapy.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.