Zapping the brain to silence hallucinations: small study shows promise

NCT ID NCT05165654

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This completed study tested whether a mild electrical current applied to a specific brain region (the right superior temporal sulcus) could reduce hallucinations in 12 adults with psychosis. Participants received transcranial electrical stimulation while researchers measured changes in hallucination severity and brain activity. The goal was to see if this noninvasive approach could improve sensory integration and lessen hallucinations.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Transcranial electrical stimulation
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a noninvasive brain stimulation treatment to ease hallucinations in people with psychosis.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 12 participants. It may not show clear benefits, and the effects may not last or apply to everyone.

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.

Hallucinations psychotic disorder Psychotic Disorders

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HALLUCINATIONS, AUDITORY PSYCHOSIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

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