ITRI develops noninvasive in-ear vagus nerve stimulator for anxiety
Posted on 2026-08-17 07:05:16
The Industrial Technology Research Institute has developed a noninvasive in-ear vagus nerve stimulator which it calls Taiwan's first digital therapeutic technology for generalized anxiety disorder.
The institute says the wearable device stimulates the vagus nerve via the ear to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is associated with relaxation.
The device also monitors physiological signals like heart rate variabililty and uses this data to adjust stimulation parameters.
The technology is intended to provide an alternative treatment option for people with anxiety... it aims to bring it into practical use within three to five years.
The Ministry of Health says one in four people here in Taiwan experience psychological distress.
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