NCT07536022 · Medical University of South Carolina
At-home taVNS for Neurorehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if taVNS works to treat symptoms of Parkinson's Disease in adults. It will also learn about the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of taVNS administered at home by the participant. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1.
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The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if taVNS works to treat symptoms of Parkinson's Disease in adults. It will also learn about the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of taVNS administered at home by the participant. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Is at-home taVNS feasible and effective for treating symptoms of Parkinson's Disease? How often are participants completing the stimulation protocol? What are the side effects of stimulation experienced by participants? How do participants rate the experience of taVNS sessions at home? How do participants' scores on assessments and questionnaires change with taVNS treatments? 2. How does taVNS impact connections between neural networks in the brain of patients with Parkinson's Disease at rest? Participants will: * Have a baseline MRI scan to take images of their brain. * Complete a series of assessments and questionnaires to evaluate their Parkinson's Disease motor symptoms, cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms, and other non-motor symptoms. * Have an initial taVNS session where their threshold to perceive the stimulation will be measured. This value will be used to stimulate each participant at a specific dose relative to their individual perception of stimulation. * Be trained on how to use the taVNS device and system and have one 1-hour taVNS session where their vitals will be monitored. * Self-administer 1-hour daily taVNS sessions for 8 weeks at-home, complete tolerability questionnaires, and weekly remote check-ins with study staff. * After 4-weeks of at-home taVNS, participants will come in-person to repeat the questionnaires and assessments from the first visit. * Following the 8 weeks of taVNS sessions, participants will repeat the MRI scan, assessments and questionnaires from visit 1. * Participants will complete questionnaires remotely 1 month following their last taVNS sessions.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Issues with walking, balance, and gait as determined by a movement disorders neurologist (a score of equal to or greater than 1 on MDS-UPDRS items 2.12 (walking and balance), and 3.10 (gait))
- Diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's Disease based on UK Brain Bank diagnostic criteria
- Hoehn and Yahr Stage 2-4 as determined by a movement disorders neurologist
- Stable on dopaminergic medications over the past 30 days prior to enrollment in the study
Exclusion criteria
- A history of taVNS in the last 6 months
- A history of brain surgery, traumatic brain injury or stroke
- Diagnosis of a nervous system disorder besides PD, alcohol or substance use disorder, or unstable cardiovascular conditions
- History of myocardial infarction or arrhythmia, bradycardia
- A history of other significant gait impairment unrelated to PD (e.g. orthopedic deformities)
- Inability to complete gait/ motor assessments (without assistance or assistance devices)
- Ear trauma, facial pain, anatomical abnormalities or other barriers preventing earpiece fit
- Failure to meet all criteria on a standardized MRI/taVNS safety screening: This includes, but is not limited to, the presence of claustrophobia, implanted electronic devices that are not 3T MRI compatible (e.g., pacemakers), metallic objects or fragments (e.g., bullets), and non-removable hair clips or piercings.
- Individuals with a diagnosis of cognitive impairment (MoCA \< 24) that would make them unable to understand and follow study instructions or to consent for themselves.
- Visual hallucinations or other psychotic symptoms, other than mild visual hallucinations secondary to PD medications, not requiring treatment, or well controlled on stable doses of quetiapine or pimavenserin.
- Individuals with a history of seizure(s)
- Inability to perform at-home taVNS procedures safely and properly (either alone or with the aid of a caregiver)
- Uncorrected visual or hearing impairments that would impact performance on cognitive tests or ability to follow study procedures
- Use of B-Blockers, dopamine blocking agent (other than quetiapine or pimavenserin in stable doses), antiarrhythmic medication, acetylcholine esterase inhibitor (study doctor will consider if on stable doses), midodrine, fludrocortisone, droxidopa, or anticholinergic drugs
Where
- Charleston, South Carolina
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations