Using transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation to improve therapy for OCD
Official title: Pairing tVNS and Exposure and Response Prevention to Improve Symptoms of OCD
Run by University of Florida · NCT05580614 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if adding a new treatment called transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation to therapy can help adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder feel better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 56 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Florida Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Gainesville, Florida) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 27, 2022 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05580614 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 55 with moderate to severe OCD symptoms.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with major neurological conditions or severe medical diseases may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This investigation aims to gather pilot data on the effectiveness of transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (tVNS) combined with exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The study will assess the tolerability of this combined treatment from both therapists and patients, measure its impact on clinical outcomes, and explore brain changes associated with the treatment. Participants will be adults aged 18 to 55 who meet specific criteria for OCD severity. The study will utilize both sham and active tVNS interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance treatment outcomes for patients with OCD.
How similar studies have gone: While the combination of tVNS and ERP is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing treatment efficacy for various conditions.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults between the ages of 18 and 55 * Meet DSM-5 criteria for OCD, based on a structured clinical interview and who have a YBOCS score of 15 or higher, indicating at least moderate OCD severity * Participants must be willing and able to provide informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Participants with major neurological conditions, autism spectrum disorder, psychosis, major uncorrected sensory deficit, and severe medical disease that may be associated with neurological effects. * People with an active eating disorder that requires treatment, but we will not exclude people who are in remission. * Current illicit or prescription drug abuse * Participants who are receiving pharmacotherapy for their OCD or for other psychiatric disorders will not be excluded * No medication changes will be allowed during the study, and participants must be on stable doses of medications for at least 6 weeks prior to entering the study. Prior ERP treatment (at least 12 months removed) is acceptable
Where it's running
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University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: John Williamson, PhD — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Laura Jones, M.S.
- Email: laura.jones@ufl.edu
- Phone: 352 265-0294
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.