Frequently asked questions

No. The CUE1+ is intended to complement, not replace, your existing prescribed medication. 

The CUE1+ can be used either alongside your existing treatment plan or as a standalone option. In all clinical studies evaluating the benefit of CUE1+, participants continued their usual Parkinson’s medication throughout the study.  

We always advise consulting your healthcare provider for personalised advice, particularly if you are considering any changes to your current treatment. 

If you are currently using another medical device alongside the CUE1+, we advise discussing compatibility with both your clinician and the manufacturer of that device. While there is no evidence that CUE1+ will cause any issues, your safety is our priority.

A published pilot study conducted at Queen Mary University of London (Azoidou et al., Parkinsonism and Related Disorders, 2025) found that 10 participants who used the CUE1+ for nine weeks showed statistically significant improvements across multiple measures of motor function, including overall motor severity, walking ability, balance, and fall risk, alongside improvements in non-motor symptoms. Compliance was 100%, and no adverse events were reported. 

A real-world feasibility study conducted at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Mackett et al., 2026, currently in preprint awaiting peer review) found statistically significant improvements in motor scores and walking speed after four weeks of daily use in older adults with Parkinson’s, a group often underrepresented in clinical trials. 

Most recently, a double-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT) conducted across two NHS sites (Azoidou et al., 2026, currently in preprint awaiting peer review) compared the active CUE1+ against a sham device in 50 participants over 12 weeks. Those using the active device showed a mean improvement of 15.6 points on the MDS-UPDRS Part III motor scale compared to 4.5 points in the sham group, a difference of 11.1 points between the two groups (p=0.002). Improvements were also observed in quality of life, sleep, and non-motor symptoms. 

You can explore our full evidence library, including published research papers and study summaries on our evidence page.

The CUE1+ is worn on the sternum (breastbone) and secured in place with a custom designed class I medical device adhesive patch. As a non-invasive device, it sits comfortably against the skin and is intended to be worn throughout the day. Please ensure the skin is clean, dry, and free of hair before applying the device. 

To find the right position, use a mirror to identify a firm, flat area of the sternum. Gently tucking your chin to your chest and placing three fingers below it will typically locate an ideal placement point. 

The adhesive patch is waterproof and designed to last up to two weeks. After this period, simply replace it to ensure the device remains securely in place. 

Important: The CUE1+ is splash-proof only. Please remove it before showering, bathing, or swimming. 

Note: If you have questions about fitting the device into your daily routine, our team is available to help via a video training call, phone call, or email.  

Contact us at [email protected] or on 020 8164 0844 (Monday to Friday, 9 am–5 pm). 

The CUE1+ uses a two-part (body-side and device-side) custom designed class I medical device adhesive system to keep the device securely and comfortably in place. 

The adhesive patch worn against the skin (body-side) is applied directly and can be worn for up to 14 days. The CUE1+ attaches to this patch via a hook-and-loop fastener, making it easy to remove and reattach as needed, for example, when charging overnight. 

The adhesive on the back of the CUE1+ itself (device-side) requires less frequent replacement, typically every few months, as its surface can gradually pick up lint and fibres, which may reduce the effectiveness of the hook-and-loop connection. 

Each CUE1+ comes with a supply of adhesive patches (body-side and device-side) for the first three months included. Additional packs can be ordered via our website, available as a single purchase or as a convenient subscription.

Always apply the body-side adhesive patch to clean, dry, and hair-free skin. Avoid touching the sticky side when applying the patch to the sternum and press the edges firmly to ensure it adheres fully. 

To help the patch last longer, gently pat it dry after showering rather than rubbing it. The patch is designed to be sweatproof and waterproof, but excessive friction can reduce its effectiveness. If the adhesive comes off, do not attempt to reattach it. 

When removing the patch, peel it away gently. Any remaining adhesive residue can be washed off with warm, soapy water.  

For the device-side patch, keep it free from lint and fibres, as buildup can reduce how securely the device attaches. Replace it if it becomes less effective and take care not to cover the metal contacts when applying a new one.

We recommend wearing the device throughout the day to maximise the potential for benefits to be realised and maintained. The CUE1+ can be worn for as long as you feel comfortable. 

The time it takes for individuals to experience the benefits of wearing the CUE1+ varies by person. Some users notice the effects immediately; for others, it may take a few days or weeks for the full benefit to become apparent. This is entirely normal, and we encourage all individuals to allow up to 90 days of use during the initial evaluation period.  

No, the CUE1+ is fully functional without the mobile application. 

The CUE1+ works straight out of the box. Default stimulation settings are pre-set to the parameters shown to provide benefits in our clinical trials. All our clinical trials have been conducted using the “out-of-the-box” device settings. For this reason, we strongly advise against adjusting the stimulation settings during the first 90 days of use, or without speaking with our Community Support team. 

If you do choose to connect to the CUE App, it is available to download for both Apple and Android devices:

Apple (iOS): Download on the App Store

Android: Download on Google Play

Your CUE1+ charges via the dock and the USB-A-to-USB-C cable included with your purchase. For safe and optimal charging, use only the supplied cable and connect it to a certified 5V USB-A power adapter (IEC 62368-1 compliant). Do not charge the device via a laptop, computer, or directly from a mains USB outlet. Ensure the underside of the device and the patch are clean and dry before placing the device on the charging dock. 

Indicator Lights

• Red – Low battery
• Amber – Charging
• Green – Fully charged

It takes approximately 1–2 hours to fully charge from flat, providing over 10 hours of battery life for a full day of use.

For detailed instructions and safety guidance, including adapter and cleaning information, please see the Instructions for Use (IFU) on pages 18-20. 

The CUE1+ is designed for adults living with Parkinson’s disease. However, in certain circumstances, its use has not been evaluated, and caution is advised.

We recommend consulting your GP or specialist before using the CUE1+ if you:

• Have an active implantable medical device, such as a pacemaker or deep-brain stimulator. These were exclusion criteria in all published and ongoing clinical studies of the CUE1+. 

• Intend to use another electronic therapeutic device simultaneously (for example, a TENS machine). 

• Have a known skin sensitivity or allergy to adhesives. 

• Have a skin condition, open wound, or scar tissue near the sternum where the device would be worn. 

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

• Have any other medical conditions about which you have concerns. 

The CUE1+ is a non-invasive device and is generally very well tolerated. Across our clinical studies to date, no serious side effects have been reported. 

In the published pilot study by Azoidou et al. (Queen Mary University of London, 2025), no side effects were reported across the nine-week study period, including from the adhesive patches. In the double-blind RCT (Azoidou et al., 2025, preprint), mild, transient skin irritation at the adhesive patch site occurred in 2 of 50 participants (4%), resolving without treatment. No other adverse events were attributed to the device. 

As with any wearable worn against the skin, a small number of users may notice mild sensitivity or localised irritation at the adhesive site. Ensuring the skin is clean and dry before application and rotating the placement site slightly when replacing the patches can help minimise discomfort. If you experience any persistent irritation or unexpected reactions, we recommend removing the device and contacting our support team or your clinician for advice. 

We are committed to transparency about our device’s safety profile. If you would like to share clinical information with your GP or specialist before starting, we are happy to provide this. Simply get in touch.

Yes. The CUE1+ can be taken through airport security without any issue. 

The device contains metal components and will be detected by standard security scanners. We recommend placing it in your bag along with your other electronic items when passing through the security checkpoint in the same way you would a mobile phone. 

To assist with your journey, please download and carry our Airport Security Letter, which provides relevant information for security personnel. 

Yes. If you are eligible for VAT relief due to a disability or chronic condition, you may complete a VAT-exempt purchase during checkout. Learn more here from the UK GOV.UK website 

No, a prescription is not required. The CUE1+ is available to purchase directly through our website, without the need for a referral or clinical authorisation. 

UK orders are typically delivered within four to seven days from receipt of order. 

Your CUE1+ arrives ready to use, with everything you need to get started included in the box: the CUE1+ device, charging dock, USB cable, a supply of adhesive patches for the first three months, and a quick start guide. 

In the event of a technical issue, please complete the Technical Issue Report Form. Please do not send your device to us at this stage. Our community support team will review your report and contact you directly to determine the appropriate next steps.

We want you to feel confident in your purchase. Under your statutory rights, you are entitled to a full refund within 30 days of receiving your CUE1+, whether you have simply changed your mind or encountered a problem with the device. 

In addition to your legal rights, we recognise that the CUE1+ may not deliver the benefit you hoped for. If you are using a CUE1+ and find it is not working for you, you may return it within 90 days of receipt and request a full refund. 

To initiate a return, please email us at [email protected] or complete ourthe Refund Request Form. A member of our team will be in touch to guide you through the process. 

For full details, please refer to our Returns Policy. 

For devices found faulty within six months of purchase, you have the statutory right to a replacement or a full refund if the fault cannot be resolved by a replacement. 

In addition to your statutory rights, Charco Neurotech provides a warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for one (1) year from the date of original retail purchase, provided the device is used in accordance with Charco’s user manuals. 

We are committed to being with you throughout your CUE1+ journey, not just at the point of purchase. 

Once your device arrives, you will have access to: 

• A video training call with our team, available to book at any time, to walk you through setup and answer any questions about getting started. 

• Our support team is available by email at [email protected] or by phone on 020 8164 0844 (Monday to Friday, 9 am–5 pm) for product queries, account support, and returns. 

We believe that the best outcomes come from ongoing support, and we are here for every step. 

The CUE1+ is currently only available in the United Kingdom, furthermore, Charco Neurotech has achieved ISO 13485 certification, the internationally recognised quality management system standard for Medical Devices, issued by Kiwa Ltd, a UKAS-accredited certification body.  

As a result, we will soon expand the availability of CUE1+ to European countries. We are actively working to obtain regulatory approval in additional markets, including the United States, Australia and South Korea. Expanding global access to the CUE1+ is one of our core strategic objectives, and we are committed to making this a reality for people with Parkinson’s wherever they are in the world. 

To stay informed about regulatory progress in your country, you can sign up for our mailing list at this link.

The CUE1+ is designed for people with Parkinson’s who are experiencing symptoms of postural instability, rigidity, or impaired gait that are not adequately managed by medication alone. Based on clinical research and real-world data to date, the device may be most relevant to people at modified Hoehn and Yahr stages 2.5 to 4, meaning individuals with mild to severe bilateral disease who are still able to walk or stand independently.  

In real-world applications, we have observed individuals in earlier stages of Parkinson’s disease who benefit from the CUE1+ device, with improved symptoms such as tremor, speech, and sleep. 

In the Queen Mary University of London double-blind RCT, analysis of responses by Hoehn and Yahr stage indicated that participants at stage 2 and above showed the most meaningful improvements across motor, gait, balance, and quality-of-life measures. Those at stage 1 showed a limited response. People with very early-stage disease, a tremor-dominant presentation, or no significant gait disturbance may experience less benefit. 

People at stage 5, who are no longer mobile, were not included in the population studied in CUE1+ trials. The device is intended to support active daily living, and its benefits are most relevant when the person is mobile and wearing it during waking hours.

The CUE1+ is primarily designed to address motor symptoms, and most clinical evidence focuses on improvements in movement, gait, rigidity, and balance. However, emerging data from our research studies, including a pilot study and a double-blind RCT by Azoidou et al. (2025), suggest that benefits may extend beyond motor function. Participants in these studies reported improvements in quality of life and sleep, as well as fewer medication-related complications.  

There are plausible mechanistic reasons for these broader effects. The CUE1+ is worn at the sternum, which research suggests could indirectly stimulate the vagus nerve, a pathway involved in regulating the autonomic nervous system, including heart rate, digestion, and emotional state. The device also delivers vibrotactile stimulation at a frequency near the resting heart rate, which studies indicate may have a calming effect and reduce anxiety. Since increased anxiety is known to worsen motor symptoms in Parkinson’s, reducing it may contribute to the observed motor improvements as well as broader well-being benefits. 

These non-motor findings are preliminary and require further investigation.