Caffeine's brain effects on panic disorder revealed in new study

NCT ID NCT06145490

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Uppsala University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study looked at how a 250 mg caffeine pill (about 2-3 cups of coffee) affects anxiety, decision-making, and body awareness in 42 people—some with panic disorder and some healthy. Participants took caffeine or a placebo on different days while having their brain scanned in a powerful 7T MRI. The goal was to understand the brain mechanisms behind caffeine-induced anxiety and panic attacks.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: caffeine
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help explain why caffeine triggers anxiety in some people and point toward personalized advice for those with panic disorder.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study with only 42 participants. Results may not apply to everyone, and the findings are about understanding mechanisms, not a new 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.

panic disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEALTHY PANIC DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

National 7T Facility - Lunds universitet

Lund, Sweden
Uppsala University, Department of Medical Sciences, Psychiatry

Uppsala, 75185, Sweden

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