Could zapping the brain curb gambling addiction?

NCT ID NCT07228182

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Shanghai Mental Health Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether high-intensity brain stimulation (HI-tACS) can help people with gambling disorder. Researchers will give 60 adults either real or fake stimulation to see if it reduces gambling urges and improves thinking. Participants are followed for three months to check lasting effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: High-intensity transcranial alternating current stimulation (HI-tACS)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug treatment for gambling disorder by improving brain function.
What could go wrong: This is an early study with only 60 people, so results may not apply widely. The stimulation may cause discomfort or not reduce gambling symptoms.

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.

pathological gambling

As listed by the trial registrant

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

GAMBLING DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shanghai Mental Health Center
RECRUITING

Shanghai, China

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