Brain zaps could curb cannabis cravings in youth

NCT ID NCT07634835

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: University of Minnesota Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This pilot study tests whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can strengthen a brain circuit linked to staying away from cannabis. Fifty treatment-seeking youth aged 15–21 with cannabis use disorder will receive either real or sham rTMS. Researchers will check if the treatment is feasible and tolerable, and measure changes in brain connectivity, cravings, and cannabis use over three months.

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 to help young people cut down or stop cannabis use.
What could go wrong: This is a very early pilot study with only 50 participants, so results may not apply widely. The sham coil looks identical, so participants may not know if they got real treatment, but the real effect 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.

cannabis dependence

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CANNABIS USE CANNABIS USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455, United States

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