Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) for Persistent Symptoms from Lyme disease: a feasibility, tolerability, and safety study
Sponsor: |
Columbia Lyme & Tick-borne Diseases Research Center |
Enrolling: |
Male and Female Patients |
Study Length: |
4 Weeks |
IRB Number: |
8316 |
Contact: |
Lyme Center: 646-774-7503 / lymecenter@cumc.columbia.edu |
Are you suffering from persistent symptoms that began after you were diagnosed and treated with antibiotics for Lyme Disease? This new research study aims to test a new form of treatment for people with persistent symptoms despite antibiotic treatment for Lyme disease. This treatment involves stimulating a nerve on the surface of your ear. This is called transcutaneous (through the skin) auricular (ear) vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). Published studies report that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) can help to reduce pain, fatigue, depression, and inflammation; some studies suggest it can improve cognition as well. Until very recently, most VNS devices have been invasive, requiring surgery to implant the device. This has limited the accessibility and broad application of VNS. A non-invasive approach to VNS is now possible. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) offers the potential of being an effective and non-toxic approach to reduce the burden of symptoms in patients with posttreatment Lyme (PTLS). The primary goals of this study are to assess safety, feasibility, and tolerability of taVNS, as well as assess its efficacy in reducing symptoms related to previously treated Lyme Disease. This study will take place over the course of 4 weeks and will enroll patients with several telehealth visits and 3 in-person visits to our research center in New York City.
This study is closed
Investigator
Brian Fallon, MD
Are you between the ages of 18 and 65? |
Yes |
No |
Do you have a clinical diagnosis of Lyme disease? |
Yes |
No |
Have you been treated with antibiotics for Lyme disease? |
Yes |
No |
Are you willing to visit our Center in NYC for at least 3 visits? |
Yes |
No |
Is fatigue one of your symptoms? |
Yes |
No |