UCLA researchers seek adults with asthma, ages 18 to 50, for a new study testing the effectiveness of a stimulation device typically used for sports injuries and chronic pain in alleviating asthma symptoms.

Similar to acupuncture, the Fenzian Treatment System is a device placed on top of the skin in key areas of the body that sends slight micro-electrical currents to stimulate deep nerves that control pain.

During treatment for pain-related problems, some patients noticed their asthma symptoms improved, which has led to further study.

"We hope this novel approach proves effective in helping asthma sufferers," said Dr. Christopher Cooper, principal investigator and UCLA adjunct professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine. "Over 14 million, or 5.5 percent of the population in the United States, have asthma, which can be lifethreatening if not properly treated."

Cooper notes that the number of people with asthma is rising. Offering patients alternative or complementary types of treatment could be helpful in controlling symptoms.

To qualify for the 10-week study, volunteers must have mild-to-moderate persistent asthma. Participants will be assigned by random to receive either the treatment with the Fenzian device or a placebo-device treatment.

Volunteers will be asked to keep a diary, complete questionnaires and use an inhaler containing the drug Albuterol to manage asthma symptoms in between treatments.

Study volunteers will participle in several types of noninvasive lung-function tests to gauge breathing capacity and to measure how easily air flows in and out of the lungs and how much air the lungs can hold.

Side effects of the Fenzian Treatment System include skin irritation beneath the device electrodes.

The drug Albuterol may cause dizziness, irregular heartbeat, increased shortness of breath, muscle twitching, and nausea and/or vomiting.

For more information, please call (310) 825-3421.