Understanding Non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation Effects in PTSD
United States60 participantsStarted 2027-04-01
Plain-language summary
The goal of this study is to determine how non-invasive brain stimulation (delivered through the ear called vagus nerve stimulation) affects fear learning processes in people who have experienced psychological trauma. To answer these questions, we measure bodily responses (heart rate, sweat, startle) and questionnaires. The main questions it aims to answer are:
Does non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation help reduce anxious arousal? Does non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation help dampen learned fear?
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 80 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. Ages 18-80
. Fluent in English
. Experience with a DSM-5 Criterion A trauma (LEC-5)
. Probable PTSD (PCL-5 ≥ 32)
Exclusion criteria
. Visual or Auditory impairment
. Major injury at time of screen or study procedures
. Taking ≥20 mg morphine per day
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Fear potentiated startle (FPS)
Timeframe: From enrollment to the end of the cross over visit at week 2