Could zapping the brain help treat anorexia? new trial investigates
NCT ID NCT05788042
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether two types of non-invasive brain stimulation—rTMS and tDCS—can improve symptoms of anorexia nervosa. Seventy participants in an inpatient setting will receive either active or sham (placebo) stimulation over 8 weeks. Researchers will measure changes in eating disorder behaviors, mood, and weight, and see if benefits last up to 20 weeks. The goal is to find a safe, acceptable treatment that could reduce hospital stays and improve daily functioning.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive, at-home treatment option to reduce eating disorder symptoms and hospital stays for people with anorexia nervosa.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early, small trial (70 people) comparing two brain stimulation methods against sham. It may not show clear benefits, and results may not apply to all patients with anorexia.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Northside Clinic
RECRUITINGSydney, New South Wales, 2031, Australia
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