Brain zaps may boost PTSD therapy by calming fear response

NCT ID NCT06234969

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) can reduce arousal in people with PTSD. Researchers will apply cTBS to a brain region involved in attention and fear processing, then measure startle responses and distress. The goal is to understand how this stimulation affects the brain's ability to unlearn fear, which could improve exposure therapy. 120 adults with PTSD will participate.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation (a type of non-invasive brain stimulation)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new way to enhance exposure therapy for PTSD by reducing arousal and improving fear extinction learning.
What could go wrong: This is an early mechanistic study, not a treatment trial. The stimulation is temporary and effects may not translate to real-world symptom relief. Risks include discomfort or seizure (rare).

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety, University of Pennsylvania
RECRUITING

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

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