Could a magnetic helmet calm anxiety? new trial tests brain zaps for GAD
NCT ID NCT07121712
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.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Anhui Medical University
RECRUITINGHefei, Anhui, 230000, China
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Anhui Medical University
RECRUITINGHefei, Anhui, 230000, China
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••