Could magnetic brain zaps ease hoarding and depression?

NCT ID NCT05985356

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This small study tested whether a type of brain stimulation called iTBS could help people who have both hoarding disorder and depression. Fourteen adults received 20 sessions over 4 weeks. Researchers measured changes in hoarding and depression symptoms, as well as brain connectivity. The goal was to see if this non-invasive treatment could improve both conditions at once.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) - a type of brain stimulation using magnetic pulses

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new, non-drug treatment option for people struggling with both hoarding disorder and depression.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early study with only 14 people, so results may not apply to everyone. It's also completed, so no further testing is planned yet.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

Depression depressive disorder Hoarding Hoarding Disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UC San Diego

    La Jolla, California, 92093, United States