Can magnetic pulses curb meth use in methadone patients?

NCT ID NCT04264741

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can reduce methamphetamine use in people already receiving methadone maintenance therapy. Fifty-five adults with both opioid and methamphetamine use disorders received daily rTMS sessions for four weeks. Researchers tracked drug use through self-reports and weekly urine tests to see if the treatment helped reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

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 offer a non-drug way to help people on methadone stop using methamphetamine.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with only 55 participants. The results may not apply to everyone, and the effect might be modest or temporary.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

amphetamine abuse methamphetamine dependence opiate dependence Recurrence

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Wuhan Mental Health Center

    Wuhan, China