Trans Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Patients With IBS-C
Key facts
- Where
- Morgantown, United StatesSee the site
Where in United States
- West Virginia University- Gastroenterology and HepatologyMorgantown, United StatesContact: Zain Sobani, MDNo longer taking part
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Contact the study team: see the registry record → Contacts and Locations
Print a page for my doctorTrial details
- Who runs it
- West Virginia University
- Trial code
- NCT07662083
- Record updated
- 23 June 2026
- Original description
This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (ta-VNS) in adults with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C). Participants will be randomized to receive either active or sham stimulation using a non-invasive auricular device over a 60-day period.Read full original descriptionShow less
Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating Trans Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome Constipation Subtype
This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (ta-VNS) in adults with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C). Participants will be randomized to receive either active or sham stimulation using a non-invasive auricular device over a 60-day period.
The primary objectives are to assess changes in symptom severity and quality of life using validated instruments, including the IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS) and the IBS Quality of Life questionnaire (IBS-QOL). Secondary assessments include safety and participant compliance.
This study aims to determine whether ta-VNS is an effective non-invasive therapeutic modality for improving symptoms and quality of life in patients with IBS-C.
Inclusion: Referred to the WVU Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Diagnosis of IBS-C.
Exclusion: Concurrent opioid use; Failure of second-line therapy with secretagogues (linaclotide, lubiprostone, plecanatide, or tenapanor); Failure of third-line therapy with tegaserod; Known debilitating psychiatric illness; Cognitive impairment; Active substance use disorder; History of major gastrointestinal surgery resulting in luminal alteration; History of vagotomy; Secondary causes of constipation (e.g., opioid use, uncontrolled hypothyroidism, celiac disease); Pregnancy; Prisoners.