Magnetic brain pulses aim to quiet suicidal urges
NCT ID NCT04130958
First seen Jul 14, 2026 · Last updated Jul 15, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a noninvasive brain stimulation technique called iTBS-TMS can reduce suicide risk in adults with major depression or borderline personality disorder who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. Participants receive either real or sham (placebo) stimulation to a brain region linked to suicide risk. The goal is to see if this approach changes brain activity and lowers suicidal behavior.
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 transcranial magnetic stimulation (iTBS-TMS), a noninvasive brain stimulation technique using a magnetic coil to activate specific brain regions
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new, noninvasive treatment to lower suicide risk in people with depression or borderline personality disorder.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage study with a small number of participants, so results may not apply broadly. The sham (placebo) group helps test effectiveness, but the treatment may not reduce suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
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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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Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02129, United States
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