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A randomised controlled trial involving 244 adults with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) examined the efficacy of a digitally delivered gut-directed hypnotherapy program, compared with an active psychoeducation control.
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App-delivered gut-directed hypnotherapy improves overall and individual gastrointestinal symptoms. Users who complete the program report greater improvement in psychological outcomes. Healthcare practitioner referral is a positive predictor of program completion, but it does not alter rates of efficacy.
Mobile app-delivered gut-directed hypnotherapy significantly improved overall and specific symptoms of IBS similar to rates seen in face-to-face trials. IBS patients who respond poorly to medications may respond better. Mobile app-delivered gut-directed hypnotherapy may provide a cost-effective and accessible alternative to otherwise inaccessible therapy.
In a retrospective audit of 204 adolescents aged 13–18 with IBS, the Nerva app significantly reduced abdominal pain and other GI symptoms, while also improving anxiety and depression scores — particularly in those with moderate to severe psychological symptoms at baseline. These findings support the use of Nerva in pediatric populations and suggest the need for further research.
In a retrospective audit, the Nerva app's gut-directed hypnotherapy program significantly reduced abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms in 64% of IBS patients who completed the program without apparent adverse effects.
Durable effects of gut-directed hypnotherapy are similar to those of the low FODMAP diet for relief of gastrointestinal symptoms. Hypnotherapy has superior efficacy to diet on psychological indices.
In a retrospective analysis of nearly 15,000 Nerva app users, adherence was comparable to or exceeded that of similar real-world digital health interventions, with older users (50+) significantly more likely to complete the full six-week program.
In a study of over 17,000 Nerva users, completing the app's gut-directed hypnotherapy program was associated with an approximate halving of IBS management costs — from $1,259 to $502 over six months — alongside significant long-term improvements in work absenteeism, presenteeism, and overall productivity.
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Clinical trial evaluating whether app-based gut-directed hypnotherapy can reduce functional gut symptoms in IBD patients in remission who still experience IBS-like symptoms.
Exploring Nerva's effectiveness in managing upper-GI symptoms.
Understanding the acceptability and outcomes for children and adolescents with IBS.
Understanding patterns of usage and outcomes for older adults using Nerva.
