Can zapping the brain sharpen fading memory?
NCT ID NCT03331796
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether a noninvasive technique called repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) can improve memory in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). 69 participants were randomly assigned to receive active rTMS to one of two brain areas or a placebo treatment. The goal was to see if the stimulation could boost word recall on a memory test.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a non-drug treatment to ease memory problems in people with mild cognitive impairment.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage study with only 69 participants. The results may not apply to everyone, and the benefits might be modest or not last long.
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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VA Palo Alto Health Care System
Palo Alto, California, 94304, United States