Magnetic pulses to the brain could curb alcohol cravings
NCT ID NCT04998916
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation called theta burst stimulation (TBS) can reduce heavy drinking and cravings in people with alcohol use disorder. Researchers will apply magnetic pulses to a brain region linked to drinking patterns, comparing real stimulation to a sham (fake) version. The trial involves 86 adults aged 21-65 who drink heavily, and will track changes in drinking days and brain responses to alcohol cues over several months.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
theta burst stimulation (TBS) using a transcranial magnetic stimulation device
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a non-invasive, drug-free option to help people with alcohol use disorder drink less and have more sober days.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage study with only 86 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment is temporary and may not produce lasting changes in drinking behavior.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Medical University of South Carolina
RECRUITINGCharleston, South Carolina, 29401, United States
Contact
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••