Brain zapping therapy could curb meth addiction in veterans

NCT ID NCT06578429

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

Summary

This study tests whether deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) can help veterans with methamphetamine use disorder. Researchers will stimulate a brain region called the insula, which is involved in cravings and decision-making. Thirty veterans will receive either real or sham stimulation to see if it reduces meth use and changes brain activity.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS) using the H4 coil

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a non-drug treatment to help people reduce or stop methamphetamine use.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage trial with only 30 participants. It may not show a clear benefit, and results may not apply to non-veterans.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

methamphetamine dependence Recurrence

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • VA Palo Alto Health Care System

    RECRUITING

    Palo Alto, California, 94304, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••