Brain zaps may rewire anxiety coping, early study hints

NCT ID NCT04824105

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.

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.

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.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • Medical University of South Carolina

    RECRUITING

    Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States

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