Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation devices and methods of use

The wearable taVNS device with customizable electrodes and a behind-the-ear stabilizer provides stable and comfortable auricular vagus nerve stimulation, addressing contact issues in existing devices and improving treatment outcomes for conditions such as ADHD and anxiety.

WO2026090439A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-04-30RGT UNIV OF CALIFORNIA
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2025/052306
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-10-23
Filing Date
2025-10-23
Publication Date
2026-04-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) devices suffer from low quality of contact between electrodes and auricular target regions, leading to inconsistent and uncomfortable stimulation.

Method used

A wearable taVNS device with a housing and removably embedded electrodes, designed to fit various ear shapes, and a behind-the-ear stabilizer for stable contact, along with customizable electrode configurations and wireless or wired operation, including a VNS pulse generator for precise electrical stimulation.

Benefits of technology

Ensures accurate and comfortable transcutaneous stimulation of the auricular vagus nerve, enhancing treatment efficacy for conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and cognitive enhancement, with minimal side effects.

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Abstract

Provided are wearable transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) devices. In certain embodiments, a taVNS of the present disclosure comprises a housing comprising a cavity adapted to receive an electrode component. The device may further comprise an electrode component removably embedded in the cavity and comprising two or more electrodes 5 adapted to contact one or more auricular target regions of a subject when wearing the taVNS device, wherein the electrodes are adapted to transcutaneously stimulate an auricular vagus nerve of the subject. In some instances, the device further comprises a behind-the-ear stabilizer adapted to stabilize contact between the two or more electrodes and the one or more auricular target regions of the 10 subject. Also provided are methods of using the devices of the present disclosure, e.g., for clinical and non-clinical purposes in a subject in need thereof.
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Citation Information

Patent Citations

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