Zapping the brain to fight drug cravings: small study shows promise

NCT ID NCT06454474

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Shanghai Mental Health Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 12, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tested a brain stimulation technique called closed-loop tACS in 21 people with methamphetamine addiction. The device uses brain wave patterns to deliver targeted electrical stimulation aimed at reducing cravings. Researchers measured craving levels and impulse control before and after the intervention. The trial is complete but small, so results are preliminary.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: closed-loop transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug method to reduce cravings and improve self-control in people with amphetamine addiction.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 21 participants and no control group. Results may not apply to everyone, and the effect on long-term addiction is unknown.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

amphetamine abuse methamphetamine dependence

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AMPHETAMINE USE DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shanghai Mental Health Center

Shanghai, Shanghai, Shanghai, China, 200000, China

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