tVNS® – A New Approach to Treating Depression

tVNS® offers a new solution to help alleviate symptoms of depression, working naturally with your body’s nervous system to promote emotional balance and well-being.

With minimal side effects and no need for medication or surgery, tVNS® is a promising alternative for those struggling with persistent depressive symptoms.

tVNS® is the only non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation device approved under the EU-MDR for the treatment of depression, providing a safe and clinically validated approach to mental health care.

Adult tVNS® users can expect a reduction of depression-specific HAMD score of minimum 2-3 points when used in parallel with psychopharmalogical and psychotherapy treatments after a treatment period of 9 weeks.

What is Depression?
Depression is a widespread mental health condition that affects millions globally, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and emotional distress. It can impact all aspects of life, including mood, behavior, and physical health. Depression arises from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, and its severity can range from mild to debilitating. For many, finding an effective treatment can be a challenging and frustrating process.
The Challenge of Depression Medication
Depression is commonly treated with antidepressant medications designed to regulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain. While these medications can be effective for some individuals, they are not always a one-size-fits-all solution. Many people experience incomplete relief or intolerable side effects, including fatigue, weight gain, emotional numbness, and sleep disturbances. For those who do not respond adequately to medication, alternative treatment options are essential.
Invasive VNS: A Historical Overview

For patients with treatment-resistant depression, invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) has been an option for decades. This therapy involves the surgical implantation of a device that delivers electrical pulses to the vagus nerve, which can influence brain activity linked to mood regulation. However, the procedure requires surgery, posing risks such as infection and complications. Side effects like voice changes and coughing are common, and only 50-60% of patients respond to treatment. Additionally, the battery must be surgically replaced every five years.

Introducing Non-Invasive tVNS®

tVNS® offers a breakthrough approach to treating depression, providing the benefits of Vagus Nerve Stimulation without the need for invasive surgery. By stimulating the vagus nerve through the skin at the cymba concha—a part of the ear directly connected to the vagus nerve—tVNS® delivers gentle, controlled neurostimulation to support mood regulation and overall emotional well-being.

With minimal side effects and no need for medication or surgery, tVNS® represents a new frontier in depression treatment. This non-invasive therapy empowers individuals to manage their condition naturally, safely, and effectively.

Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of depression

Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS®) offers an innovative, drug-free approach to managing depression.

The vagus nerve plays a key role in regulating mood, emotional processing, and stress response. By stimulating its auricular branch within the ear, tVNS® helps restore balance within the nervous system, offering a new way to alleviate symptoms of depression.

This advanced therapy uses gentle electrical impulses to activate the vagus nerve, influencing the brain’s emotional centers. The result? A natural, non-invasive approach to improving mood without the side effects associated with traditional antidepressants.

As a Class IIa medical device approved under the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR), tVNS® meets the highest standards of safety and efficacy in mental health treatment.

tVNS® is a Simple, Effective, and Portable Therapy

tVNS® delivers targeted neurostimulation therapy designed specifically to manage depression by engaging the vagus nerve’s ability to regulate mood and emotional processing. This innovative treatment stimulates the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN) via the skin using gentle, precise electrical impulses. These signals first reach the brainstem and then ascend to higher brain centers involved in mood regulation, aiming to restore emotional balance and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Designed for everyday life, tVNS® is easy to use, portable, and discreet, making it simple to incorporate into your daily routine. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, tVNS® offers a consistent and accessible way to support mental well-being without the need for additional medication or invasive procedures.

Each session promotes a step towards neurological balance, utilizing the body’s natural pathways to enhance mood and resilience. The user-friendly nature of the tVNS® device ensures that starting and maintaining treatment is straightforward, empowering you to manage your depression effectively and non-invasively.

Remarkable Improvement in Adolescent Depression

A 17-year-old girl suffering from treatment-resistant depression had expressed intent to die by suicide after high school graduation. Despite years of psychotherapy and medication, her condition remained severe.

After starting Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS®), she experienced significant improvements. Her depression severity decreased, she graduated from high school, secured a part-time job, and enrolled in university. Both self-reported and clinician- assessed measures showed a reduction in depressive symptoms.

This case highlights the potential of tVNS® as a life-changing treatment for adolescents facing severe, treatment-resistant depression.

Better days are ahead.

With its non-invasive approach, patient-friendly treatments, and minimal side effects, tVNS® offers a new horizon of hope and relief for those living with depression. Embrace a future where each day holds the promise of greater balance and enhanced quality of life.

Certified Medical Device

tVNS® is the world’s only non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation approved as a Class IIa medical device under the EU-MDR, that is indicated to treat depression. 

Non-Invasive Approach​
A safe and gentle alternative to surgery and medication, tVNS® stimulates the vagus nerve through the skin, offering a harmonious path to wellbeing with very low side-effects.
Control at Your Fingertips
Use our innovative tVNS® device anywhere and monitor your treatment through our user-friendly app. You have the freedom to tailor your therapy to your lifestyle.
Most Effective Stimulation Site
tVNS® is the only non-invasive stimulation device that stimulates the cymba concha, resulting in 100% vagus nerve innervation (as opposed to e.g. the tragus, which only results in 45% innervation).

Why We Lead in Vagus Nerve Stimulation

For over 20 years, our commitment to innovation has positioned us at the forefront of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation.

Our unmatched research and development efforts are backed by solid clinical trials, ensuring our devices are not only effective but also safe and reliable. As an approved Class IIa medical device under the EU-MDR, we offer scientifically validated solutions in a market crowded with unverified alternatives.

Since introducing the Cerbomed Nemos device, we’ve led the market in non-invasive vagus nerve technology. Our pioneering approach and sustained innovation keep us ahead, with our devices being preferred by healthcare professionals and researchers worldwide due to unmatched safety, reliability and precision.

Developed and manufactured in Germany, our devices meet the highest quality standards, reflecting our dedication to excellence and the well-being of our patients.

Track, monitor and share your treatment​

The innovative tVNS® Patient App is a wellness and session-diary application designed to help users keep a record of their well-being and the duration of their stimulation sessions.

The tVNS® Patient App is available now in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store (EU-only).

tVNS® Patient is fully compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring that patient data is handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.

Voices of Progress:
Real Stories from tVNS® Patients

"The weight of depression had become an all-too-familiar companion. While the journey continues, tVNS® has offered a supportive hand, complementing my therapies and blessing me with brighter days.”

Priya N.

tVNS® Patient from London, United Kingdom

Why choose our
tVNS® devices?

Our tVNS® device is the only non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator that is approved as a Class IIa medical device under the European Medical Device Regulation (EU-MDR). tVNS® sets itself apart with its non-invasive, clinically validated approach, offering a safer and more comfortable alternative to invasive methods. Uniquely targeting the cymba concha for 100% innervation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN) with our patented electrode, tVNS® ensures maximum efficacy compared to other devices that only achieve partial innervation.

Approved Medical Device

Our tVNS® device is the only non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device that is approved as a medical device under the EU-MDR. It uniquely targets the Cymba Concha for 100% innervation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, unlike other devices that stimulate other areas and are not manufactured under the same quality and safety standards.

Non-Surgical Approach​

tVNS® offers the efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation without the complexities or risks of surgical interventions. This means meaningful therapeutic benefits, all under your control, without invasive procedures.

Minimal Side Effects

Transitioning away from traditional medications often comes with the pursuit of fewer side effects. tVNS®, being drug-free, ensures a therapeutic experience with reduced potential for long-term adverse outcomes, positioning itself as a safer alternative.

Made in Germany

Our commitment to excellence ensures that each device meets the highest standards of quality and performance, embodying the renowned precision of German engineering and manufacturing. With tVNS®, you’re choosing a device built on a foundation of durability and innovative design, trusted by healthcare professionals and researchers worldwide.

Innovative App Integration

Tracking and understanding your treatment progression is crucial. Our dedicated tVNS® Patient App not only provides real-time monitoring but also facilitates seamless sharing of data with your healthcare professionals.

Remote Flexibility

In our modern age, the convenience of remote access is invaluable. tVNS® extends this by offering device delivery directly to your doorstep and remote training. Initiate your treatment journey without the hassles or constraints of travel.

Pediatric Compatibility

tVNS® has been meticulously designed and approved for use in children aged 3 and above, bridging a crucial gap in pediatric care.

Easy to Use

Functionality should not compromise simplicity. The tVNS® device, while technologically advanced, is as intuitive as a smartphone, making integration into daily routines effortless.

Take the next step with tVNS® - for a life without limitations.

Every day holds the potential for renewal. Yet, for those living with depression, some days can feel heavy with uncertainty and emotional strain. With tVNS®, we strive to bring balance and relief, helping you reclaim each day with greater ease.

By harnessing the power of neurostimulation, tVNS® supports emotional well-being and promotes a more stable mood, empowering individuals to navigate life with greater confidence and resilience.

Get in Touch with Our Experts

Contact our tVNS® Customer Service Team to learn more about tVNS® and receive personalized information and support, and begin your journey towards better health with tVNS®.

Your tVNS® Expert:

Elisa Hack