Could a Head-Zap gadget tame Alzheimer's agitation?

NCT ID NCT05478681

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This small study tested whether a home-use brain stimulation device (tDCS) is safe and acceptable for people with Alzheimer's who have behavioral symptoms like agitation or apathy. Only 3 participants completed the trial, with caregivers helping to set up the device. The main goals were to see if people would use it and if side effects were manageable.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a safe, at-home way to reduce troubling behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer's patients.
What could go wrong: This was a tiny pilot study with only 3 participants, so results may not apply to others. tDCS can cause side effects like itching, headache, or dizziness.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ALZHEIMER DISEASE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease anxiety disorder Depression Lethargy Psychotic Disorders

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALZHEIMER DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas, 78229, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.