Multicenter fase 2 trial of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation plus pregabalin for radiotherapy-related neuropathic pain in HNC survivors

Radiotherapy-related neuropathic pain (RRNP) is a late complication reported by more then 30% of survivors of head and neck cancer (HNC) after radiotherapy. Rapid relief of RRNP in HNC survivors is challenging when relying solely on pharmacologic treatments, especially in the early stages of medication. The phase 2 RELAX trial, at 4 centers in China, found that addition of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation for 7 days at the initial stage of pregabalin treatment resulted in improved neuropathic pain relief in HNC survivors with moderate-to-severe RRNP, with no serious adverse events.