Noninvasive nerve stimulation shows potential for treating uncontrolled high blood pressure
A noninvasive technique that stimulates nerves through the ear has been shown to be safe, well tolerated and easy for patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure to use at home, according to a clinical trial led by researchers at Queen Mary University of London.
A clinical trial led by researchers at Queen Mary University of London has demonstrated that a noninvasive nerve stimulation technique, delivered through the ear, is safe and well tolerated for patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure. Published in the journal Hypertension, the SCRATCH-HTN trial involved 63 participants with hypertension who were already on blood pressure medications.
The subjects used a small handheld device for 30 minutes daily for two weeks, then once weekly for an additional 10 weeks, to receive gentle electrical stimulation. While the overall trial did not show a significant difference in blood pressure reduction between the active treatment group and those receiving a sham device, a subgroup analysis revealed that individuals with more severe hypertension experienced greater blood pressure reductions.
Dr. Ajay Gupta, the chief investigator, emphasized that this innovative, patient-friendly technology could potentially offer a cost-effective solution for millions of people with uncontrolled hypertension. Nonetheless, larger studies are required to determine which patient groups may benefit most from this noninvasive neuromodulation approach.
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