Using ear stimulation to help people stay in treatment for opioid use disorder
Official title: Delivering Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation to Improve Treatment Retention in Opioid Use Disorder
Funded at Spark Biomedical INC · NIH-10456147 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a gentle ear stimulation technique to help people with opioid use disorder stick with their treatment and feel better, offering a safer and easier option than some traditional methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Spark Biomedical INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Friendswood, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $1,246,700 |
| NIH project number | 5R44DA053876-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10456147 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are seeking treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with opioid use disorder or those who are already successfully managing their condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation, a non-invasive technique that stimulates specific nerves in the ear, to improve treatment retention for individuals with opioid use disorder. The approach aims to provide a safe and effective alternative to traditional opioid withdrawal treatments, which often have limited availability and can pose significant risks. By focusing on a method that requires minimal training and has a low side effect profile, the research seeks to make treatment more accessible and effective for patients. Participants may receive this innovative therapy as part of their ongoing care to help manage their condition and reduce reliance on opioids.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment retention and outcomes for patients struggling with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using non-invasive neurostimulation techniques for various conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Spark Biomedical INC
Friendswood, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khodaparast, Navid — Spark Biomedical INC
- Study coordinator: Khodaparast, Navid
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.