Zapping the Brain's reward center to fight anhedonia

NCT ID NCT05468853

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

Summary

This study tested whether a type of brain stimulation called TMS could reduce anhedonia, or loss of interest or pleasure. 72 adults with elevated anhedonia received TMS targeting the brain's reward circuit. Researchers measured changes in self-reported anhedonia and brain activity using EEG and fMRI.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a non-drug treatment for anhedonia, a common symptom in depression and other conditions.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with no placebo group, so results may not be reliable or apply to everyone. TMS can cause mild side effects like headache or scalp discomfort.

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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As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • FSU MRI Facility

    Tallahassee, Florida, 32306, United States