Meta Information
ID:vagus-nerve-stimulation
Name:Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation
- tVNS
- auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation
- taVNS
Active Compound
null
Intervention Type
device
Delivery
Route:
transcutaneous
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:medical_device_class_ii
- eu:medical_device_class_iia
- us:unregulated_consumer_device
Indication
Focus:
- healthspan
- disease_treatment
- symptom_management
Description:
Modulation of the autonomic nervous system to reduce inflammation, improve heart rate variability (HRV), and treat conditions like epilepsy, depression, and migraine.
Typical Protocol
- Consumer devices are typically used for 15-30 minutes, 1-2 times daily.
- Stimulation is applied via an electrode clip to the cymba conchae or tragus of the ear.
- Clinical protocols for specific diseases may require longer durations and are medically supervised.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
250
High Cost:
1500
Cost Type:
equipment
Description:
One-time purchase cost for a consumer-grade transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device.
Summary
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) involves non-invasively stimulating the auricular branch of the vagus nerve with a small electrical current. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which can increase heart rate variability (HRV), lower systemic inflammation, and improve autonomic balance, all of which are key markers associated with healthy aging.
Purpose
Modulates the autonomic nervous system to reduce inflammation and improve HRV.
Card Summary
Non-invasively stimulates the vagus nerve to reduce inflammation and improve autonomic balance.
Drug Class
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
4.5
Justification:
Targets autonomic balance and inflammation, but long-term healthspan benefits are not yet established.
Evidence
Grade:
B
Score:
6.5
Justification:
Small human trials show benefits for HRV and inflammation; large-scale healthspan RCTs are lacking.
Safety
Score:
2.5
Justification:
Generally well-tolerated; primary risks are minor skin irritation at the application site.
Flags
- Contraindicated for individuals with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other implanted electronic devices.
- Potential for mild side effects like skin irritation, tingling, headache, or dizziness.
- Device quality and stimulation parameters vary significantly between consumer and medical-grade units.
Verdict
A promising tool for improving autonomic function, but healthspan evidence is emerging.
Created
2026-05-06T16:41:15.909769Z
Ai Model
Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)