Could a magnetic helmet calm anxiety? new trial tests brain zaps for GAD

NCT ID NCT07121712

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: WANG KAI Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation method called continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) can reduce anxiety in people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Forty participants will be randomly assigned to receive either real or sham (placebo) stimulation over seven days, guided by their own MRI scans. Researchers will measure changes in anxiety symptoms and brain activity before and after treatment, with a follow-up two weeks later.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Navigated continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) using a MagStim Rapid2 stimulator
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new, non-drug treatment option for generalized anxiety disorder that targets specific brain areas.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The sham group helps control for placebo effects, but the treatment may still fail to show meaningful benefit.

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.

generalized anxiety disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Anhui Medical University
RECRUITING

Hefei, Anhui, 230000, China
Anhui Medical University
RECRUITING

Hefei, Anhui, 230000, China

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