FDA: Nerve-Stimulation Device Relieves Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted marketing authorization of the first device used to reduce the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. The FDA granted the authorization last week to Innovative Health Solutions Inc. for its NSS-2 Bridge device. The NSS-2 Bridge is a small electrical nerve stimulator placed behind the ear. It emits electrical pulses to stimulate branches of certain cranial nerves and may provide relief from opioid withdrawal symptoms, which include sweating, gastrointestinal upset, agitation, insomnia and joint pain. Patients can use the device for up to five da...