Can a surprise twist help erase trauma? new PTSD trial investigates
NCT ID NCT05853627
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether adding an unexpected element (like singing) during memory reactivation, combined with the drug propranolol, can reduce physical stress responses to traumatic memories in people with PTSD. Eighty adults with trauma history will be randomly assigned to standard or mismatch reactivation sessions over six weeks. The goal is to see if the mismatch approach better weakens the memory and lowers heart rate and sweat responses during trauma recall.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Propranolol
What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to a more effective treatment for PTSD by weakening traumatic memories and reducing physical stress reactions.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase study (80 participants) testing a novel approach. The mismatch technique may not improve outcomes over standard reactivation, and propranolol can cause side effects like low blood pressure or fatigue.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program
RECRUITINGCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••