Acoustic Stimulation for Epilepsy

This trial explores whether low-frequency sounds can reduce nighttime seizures in people with epilepsy. Participants will either receive sound therapy (Acoustic 1Hz Stimulation) through headphones while they sleep, listen to background noise (Sham Background Noise), or maintain a seizure diary without using the sound system. The goal is to determine if this daily, at-home therapy can manage nocturnal seizures over the long term. This trial may suit adults who frequently experience nighttime seizures and can sleep with headphones on. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance seizure management.

The trial requires that you do not change your medications for at least 1 month before and during the 3 months of study activities. However, if you are taking psychoactive medications (like SSRIs, antipsychotics, or stimulants), you cannot participate in the trial.

Research shows that 1 Hz sound waves are generally safe and well-tolerated for people with epilepsy. Studies on similar low-frequency treatments, such as 1 Hz deep repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), have found these methods safe for those with temporal lobe epilepsy. Participants in these studies reported no major side effects, indicating that this type of stimulation is unlikely to cause significant problems. While more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness, current evidence supports the safety of using low-frequency sound waves in humans.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about Acoustic 1Hz Stimulation for epilepsy because it introduces a non-invasive approach to managing seizures through sound therapy during sleep. Unlike traditional epilepsy treatments, which often include medications like antiepileptic drugs or surgical interventions, this method uses low-frequency sound waves to potentially modulate brain activity and reduce seizure frequency. This innovative technique could offer a new option for patients looking for alternatives to medication, with the added convenience of being applied via a phone app and headphones, making it easy to integrate into daily life.

Research has shown that low-frequency sound waves (1 Hz), which participants in this trial may receive as part of the Acoustic 1Hz Stimulation arm, might help reduce seizures in people with epilepsy. Studies have found that similar low-frequency methods can calm the brain and decrease seizure activity. For example, treatments like repetitive magnetic stimulation successfully reduced seizures by up to 50%. Although this specific sound-based approach is still under investigation, early results are promising for controlling seizures during sleep.²⁵⁶⁷⁸