Zapping the brain to kick the habit: new trial tests rTMS for smoking cessation
NCT ID NCT04903028
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called rTMS can help people stop smoking. Researchers will use MRI scans to guide the stimulation to brain areas involved in craving and self-control. The trial involves 64 smokers who will receive either real or sham rTMS, and their quit rates and brain activity will be measured over several weeks.
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 successful, this could offer a non-drug, brain-based approach to help people quit smoking by reducing cravings and improving self-control.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage study with only 64 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment is non-invasive but may cause mild side effects like headache or scalp discomfort.
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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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Medical University of South Carolina
RECRUITINGCharleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States
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Medical University of South Carolina
RECRUITINGCharleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••