Feasibility, safety and efficacy of multi-dose vagus nerve stimulation in Parkinson's disease: a double-blind, randomised sham-controlled proof-of-concept study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Gait and cognitive impairments are hallmark features of Parkinson's disease (PD) that significantly impact quality of life. These deficits arise from both dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic mechanisms, including cholinergic dysfunction. Transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation (tcVNS) is a non-invasive neuromodulatory technique that may enhance cholinergic function and has potential therapeutic relevance for individuals with PD. However, its feasibility, acceptability, adherence, and safety in a domiciliary setting remain unclear. We conducted a single-centre, double-blind, parallel, sham-controlled, randomised proof-of-concept study.

Objectives

The primary objective was to assess the feasibility, acceptability, adherence, and safety of home-based tcVNS. The

SUBMITTER: Sigurdsson HP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12511173 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature