Can a Head-Zap ease OCD? small trial hints at hope

NCT ID NCT05501132

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: The National Brain Mapping Laboratory (NBML) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This completed Phase 1 trial tested transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in 42 adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Participants received 10 sessions of either low-dose, higher-dose, or fake (sham) electrical stimulation over five days. The goal was to see if tDCS could improve OCD symptoms, quality of life, depression, and thinking skills. Results are not yet reported, but the study aims to find a safe, non-drug option for managing OCD.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment to reduce OCD symptoms and improve daily functioning.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 42 participants, so results may not apply widely. The effects of tDCS can vary, and the study compares different doses, so the best approach is still uncertain.

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.

obsessive-compulsive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE SYMPTOM

Contacts and locations

Locations

Ardabil University of Medical Sciences

Ardabil, Iran

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