Could brain zaps curb anorexia's compulsive grip?

NCT ID NCT06138782

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study explores whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can reduce compulsive behaviors in people with anorexia nervosa. Twenty participants will receive multiple sessions of rTMS targeting a brain region linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder. The goal is to identify brain network changes that might lead to new treatments.

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 point toward a new treatment option for anorexia nervosa by targeting brain circuits linked to compulsive behaviors.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage study with only 20 participants. It is designed to understand brain networks, not to prove a treatment works. The results may not lead to a therapy.

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.

Anorexia anorexia nervosa obsessive-compulsive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of California, San Francisco

    San Francisco, California, 94107, United States