Brain zaps may rewire anxiety coping, early study hints

NCT ID NCT04824105

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Medical University of South Carolina Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether a device called rTMS, which uses magnetic pulses to temporarily change brain activity, can alter how people with anxiety respond to fearful situations. Researchers will measure brain signals and reactions in 80 adults who recently started anxiety treatment. The goal is not to treat anxiety now, but to learn how to improve future therapies.

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 study could point toward new ways to treat anxiety by temporarily altering brain activity.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study that is not designed to treat anxiety. It only measures brain responses, so it may not lead to any practical treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

adjustment disorder anxiety disorder generalized anxiety disorder obsessive-compulsive disorder panic disorder post-traumatic stress disorder social phobia specific phobia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Medical University of South Carolina
RECRUITING

Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States

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