About this trial
This research study is being conducted to learn if Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation (tAN®) may be effective in treating alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation (tAN®) works by delivering small electrical stimulations to the Vagus and Trigeminal nerves. This study will be conducted over the course of five days. Participants will be enrolled within 24 hours of entering treatment for alcohol withdrawal management. A total of 60 individuals will be enrolled and randomly assigned to either active (treatment with the device + treatment as usual) or sham (treatment as usual) group. Data will be collected on alcohol craving, use of comfort medications, sleep, and mood.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Ages 18 years old to 65 years old
Entering an inpatient substance use treatment program for alcohol withdrawal management.
Score a 27 or higher on the WHO-ASSIST V3.0
Is proficient in English
Disqualifiers
Age < 18 or > 65
Requires medical tapering from benzodiazepines or opioids.
Has a history of epileptic seizures or seizures due to alcohol withdrawal.
Has a cardiac pacemaker, cochlear prosthesis, neurostimulator or other device for which tAN® would be contraindicated.
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation (tAN)
Treatment groups
Sponsors and collaborators
Erin Deneke
Lead sponsor
Caron Treatment Centers
Sponsor institution