At a glance
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Non-invasive Vagal Nerve Stimulation to Improve Functional Outcomes in Veterans With Alcohol Use Disorder
In Brief
A Phase 1 clinical trial evaluating Cervical transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (active comparator) and Cervical transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (sham comparator) for Alcohol Use Disorder. Completed, enrolled 19 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major health concern amongst Veterans as it causes poor health, lost days at work, impaired psychosocial functioning, and decreased quality of life. Current treatment options for AUD show limited effectiveness, which is exemplified by high relapse rates. Chronic heavy drinking results in psychological and physical distress during abstinence, including anxiety, irritability, and general discomfort, which increases the urge to drink to relieve these symptoms. The hypothesis of this study is that noninvasive vagal nerve stimulation (nVNS) can modify the perception of such inner bodily sensations of distress, and consequently reduces the drive to drink for relief. The aim of this study is to establish feasibility and acceptability of applying nVNS as a rehabilitative treatment for AUD in Veterans. The study will also evaluate the effect of nVNS on functional outcomes, quality of life, distress, and craving, and if nVNS alters neural activation patterns in brain regions involved in the perception and awareness of distress and pain.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
Active nVNS produces low-voltage electrical signal that generates sensations on the skin on upper anterior cervical area (overlying carotid artery) and that stimulates the vagus nerve.
Sham nVNS produces low-voltage electrical signal that generates sensations on the skin on upper anterior cervical area (overlying carotid artery) and that does not stimulate the vagus nerve.