Can magnetic pulses to the brain curb alcohol cravings?
NCT ID NCT03809286
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether a brain stimulation technique called deep rTMS can help people with alcohol use disorder drink less. Participants receive either real or sham rTMS over 3 weeks while staying in the hospital. Researchers measure changes in alcohol self-administration and cravings. The trial is currently suspended.
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)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-drug treatment to help people with alcohol use disorder drink less.
- What could go wrong
- This trial is small (44 people) and currently suspended, so results are uncertain. Previous rTMS studies reduced craving but not actual drinking.
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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
-
New York State Psychiatric Institute
New York, New York, 10032, United States
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