Neuromodulation for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
(NIP Trial)
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Low-level tragus stimulation for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension?
Research on similar treatments, like vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), shows promise in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension by improving heart function and reducing blood pressure in the lungs. VNS has been effective in other heart-related conditions, suggesting that neuromodulation techniques could help manage this disease.12345
Is neuromodulation, like vagus nerve stimulation, safe for humans?
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been used in other heart-related conditions and can have unwanted effects, but it is generally considered safe. However, there are concerns about potential unwanted effects in sensitive patients, so more research is needed to fully understand its safety in humans.12367
How does low-level tragus stimulation differ from other treatments for pulmonary arterial hypertension?
Low-level tragus stimulation is unique because it involves neuromodulation, specifically targeting the vagus nerve to restore balance in the autonomic nervous system, which can help reduce pulmonary artery pressure and improve heart function. Unlike traditional drug treatments, this approach aims to address the underlying autonomic imbalance contributing to the disease.12389
What is the purpose of this trial?
Patients with Group 1 pulmonary hypertension will be enrolled in this study. Investigators will test the hypothesis of low-level tragal stimulation in patients with pulmonary hypertension. The study will be conducted over 4 weeks and patients will undergo low-level tragus stimulation for 1 hour every day for 4 weeks. At baseline the following tests will be conducted-6-minute walk distance, vascular function testing using noninvasive device and blood samples will be collected. Patient will also undergo a limited echocardiography to assess right ventricular function. After 4 weeks of stimulation patients will come back to undergo these tests again. Investigators hypothesized that low-level tragus stimulation (neuromodulation) will lead to improvement in vascular function, 6-minute walk distance and blood based biomarkers in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Research Team
Tarun Dasari, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Oklahoma
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for patients with Group 1 pulmonary hypertension. Participants should be able to undergo daily low-level tragus stimulation and return after 4 weeks for follow-up tests, including a walking test, vascular function assessment, and heart function evaluation via echocardiography.Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Baseline tests including 6-minute walk distance, vascular function testing, blood samples, and echocardiography
Treatment
Participants undergo low-level tragus stimulation for 1 hour every day for 4 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including repeat tests
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Low-level tragus stimulation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Oklahoma
Lead Sponsor