Zapping the brain to silence hallucinations: small study shows promise

NCT ID NCT05165654

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.

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.

Hallucinations psychotic disorder Psychotic Disorders

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States