Could sound waves help fight addiction? new trial explores ultrasound for opioid use

NCT ID NCT04197921

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: InSightec Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-stage trial is testing whether low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) can safely help people with opioid or other substance use disorders. The device sends sound waves to specific brain areas to calm cravings. 29 adults in outpatient treatment will receive both real and sham ultrasound sessions to see if it is safe and tolerable.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) via Exablate device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, non-invasive brain stimulation method to help manage cravings and reduce substance use.
What could go wrong: This is a very early feasibility study with only 29 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The treatment is still experimental, and side effects are not yet fully known.

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.

opiate dependence substance-related disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OPIOID-USE DISORDER SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

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Study contacts

Contact

Email: •••••@•••••
Contact

Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

Tampa General Hospital
NOT_YET_RECRUITING

Tampa, Florida, 33606, United States
University of Maryland, Baltimore
RECRUITING

Baltimore, Maryland, 21201, United States
Weill Cornell Medicine
RECRUITING

New York, New York, 10065, United States
West Virginia University: Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute
RECRUITING

Morgantown, West Virginia, 26505, United States

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