Using the nVNS device
This nVNS device produces a proprietary, low-voltage electrical signal with a 24-volt peak voltage and a 60-mA peak output current. In the PRESTO study, patients were instructed to self-administer bilateral 120-second stimulations to the right and left sides of their necks within 20 minutes of pain onset. If the pain hadn’t improved within 15 minutes, they were to repeat the stimulations.
In a post hoc analysis of the PREVA (Prevention and Acute treatment of chronic cluster headache) study (Cephalalgia. 2016;36[6]:534-46), investigators determined that the mean reduction in the number of cluster headache attacks was significantly greater in patients who used the device to treat at least 77% of their attacks. That had a bigger preventive effect than did the number of stimulations a patient applied per day.
The PRESTO and PREVA trials were sponsored by electroCore, where Mr. Liebler is employed.