Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation reduces acute mountain sickness severity in patients with AMS
This protocol describes a double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) for acute mountain sickness (AMS). The primary outcome is the change in the 2018 Lake Louise AMS Score at 24 hours, with at least 158 participants receiving either active or sham taVNS for five consecutive days.
This article is automatically generated from the structured evidence profile behind the claim above. Scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical advice.
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation reduces acute mountain sickness severity in patients with AMS The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 42/100 (low).
The Claim
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation reduces acute mountain sickness severity in patients with AMS
This conclusion is most relevant to: Patients with acute mountain sickness (AMS) (≥158 participants).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in patients with acute mountain sickness: a study protocol for a double-blind, randomised, sham-controlled trial. (BMJ open, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸taVNS activates the vagus nerve via auricular branch
- ▸Modulates autonomic nervous system and inflammatory pathways
- ▸May improve cerebral oxygenation and reduce oxidative stress
- ▸Result: Reduced AMS symptoms and cognitive impairment
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Patients with acute mountain sickness (AMS) (≥158 participants)
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Single-center study may limit generalizability
- ▸Results are based on a protocol, not actual data; efficacy is not yet confirmed
- ▸Sham-controlled design may have blinding challenges due to sensation differences
Frequently Asked Questions
What is transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS)?▼
taVNS is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that stimulates the vagus nerve through electrodes placed on the ear, potentially influencing autonomic function and inflammation.
How is acute mountain sickness measured in this study?▼
The primary measure is the 2018 Lake Louise AMS Score at 24 hours, with additional assessments including headache, sleep quality, and cognitive function.
What is the sample size and duration of the intervention?▼
The study plans to enroll at least 158 participants, who will receive either active or sham taVNS for five consecutive days.
What are the exploratory outcomes of this trial?▼
Exploratory outcomes include faecal and urinary metabolomics to explore the mechanisms of taVNS in AMS.
References
- 1.Tian YK, Wang X, Cao X, Ji HM, Wang BQ, Liu J. “Efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in patients with acute mountain sickness: a study protocol for a double-blind, randomised, sham-controlled trial..” BMJ open, 2026. PMID: 42463193 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2025-114627