Could zapping the brain rapidly reduce suicidal urges?
NCT ID NCT04197765
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This pilot study tests whether a type of brain stimulation called accelerated continuous theta-burst stimulation (acTBS) can reduce suicidal thoughts in people hospitalized for depression. Forty inpatients will receive either real or sham (fake) stimulation up to 5 times a day for about a week. Researchers will track changes in suicidal thinking and mood using questionnaires.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
accelerated continuous theta-burst stimulation (acTBS) using a transcranial magnetic stimulation device
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a rapid, non-drug treatment to ease suicidal thoughts in people hospitalized with depression.
What could go wrong
This is a very small pilot study with only 40 people. It is too early to know if the treatment is effective or safe for wider use.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital
Los Angeles, California, 90025, United States