Can magnetic pulses to the brain calm End-of-Life distress?

NCT ID NCT04257227

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Ottawa Hospital Research Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 03, 2026 · Last updated Aug 04, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can reduce psychological and existential distress in people with advanced, terminal illness. Participants receive rTMS sessions while on a palliative care unit, and researchers measure changes in depression, anxiety, and overall distress. The study also checks if the treatment is practical and acceptable for patients nearing the end of life.

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), a non-invasive brain stimulation device
What this could lead to: If effective, rTMS could offer a rapid, non-drug option to relieve psychological and existential distress in patients nearing the end of life, improving their quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase trial with a small number of participants, so results may not be conclusive. The treatment may not work for everyone, and there are risks like seizures or discomfort, though screening helps reduce these.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder Death Depression

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSION, ANXIETY DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS TERMINAL ILLNESS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Elisabeth Bruyère Hospital

Ottawa, Ontario, K1N5C8, Canada

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