Effects of Acupuncture on Patients with Epilepsy Using RNS

Clinical and Electrographic Changes in RNS System Patients with Acupuncture Treatment

Not applicable Interventional The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT04677751

This study is testing whether acupuncture can help improve mood, thinking, and reduce seizures in people with epilepsy who have a Responsive Neurostimulation system.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Academic / other
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT04677751 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of acupuncture treatment on patients with epilepsy who have been implanted with a Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS) system. It aims to evaluate changes in mood, cognition, and seizure frequency and severity, as well as analyze electrographic activity recorded by the RNS system over a 12-week period. Participants will maintain stable medication and stimulation settings while undergoing acupuncture sessions. The study will also require participants to keep a seizure diary to track their progress.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with epilepsy who have an RNS system implanted and can commit to 12 weeks of acupuncture treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent, have a bleeding disorder, or are pregnant may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a complementary treatment option for epilepsy patients, potentially improving their mood and reducing seizure activity.

How similar studies have performed: While acupuncture has been explored in various contexts, this specific approach combining acupuncture with RNS technology is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient implanted with the RNS system
* Patient can undergo 12 weeks of acupuncture
* Patient is able remain on stable medications for 12 weeks
* Patient is able to remain on stable Detection and Stimulation settings for 12 weeks
* Patient or/and caregiver is able to understand and sign informed consent and HIPAA authorization
* Patient or caregiver able to maintain a seizure diary for duration of study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient and /or caregiver is unable to sign informed consent to study
* Patient has a bleeding disorder, pacemaker, or pregnant

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions EpilepsyacupunctureRNSseizure
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.