Brain zaps for schizophrenia? tiny trial tests DBS when meds fail
NCT ID NCT07369401
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) — a device that sends electrical pulses to specific brain areas — can help people with schizophrenia that hasn't improved with medication. Ten adults aged 18-55 will have electrodes implanted in two brain regions and receive different stimulation patterns over 24 weeks. The goal is to see if symptoms improve enough to make a real difference.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- deep brain stimulation (DBS) device
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new option for people with schizophrenia that doesn't respond to medication.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small early study with only 10 people, so results may not apply widely. Brain surgery carries risks like infection or bleeding, and the benefit is uncertain.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
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