Brain zap trial aims to sharpen thinking in schizophrenia

NCT ID NCT06003036

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a fast form of brain stimulation (accelerated iTBS) can improve thinking and memory in 30 adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who are already taking the medication clozapine. Participants will receive both real stimulation and a sham (fake) version in a random order, while their brain activity is measured with MRI. The goal is to see if the stimulation changes brain connections linked to working memory.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

transcranial magnetic stimulation (accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to boost thinking and memory in people with schizophrenia who are already on clozapine.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early study (30 people) looking at brain scans, not symptoms. It may not lead to any real-world benefit, and the effects could be temporary or no different from sham.

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.

Psychotic Disorders schizoaffective disorder schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital/University of Pittsburgh

    RECRUITING

    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••