Brain zapping trial for Schizophrenia's 'Negative Symptoms' ends early
NCT ID NCT03648268
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called TMS could help reduce negative symptoms of schizophrenia, like low motivation and reduced facial expression. The trial enrolled 47 adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and compared active TMS to a sham (fake) treatment. However, the study was terminated early, so the results are limited and not conclusive.
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)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment for negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as lack of motivation and emotional expression.
What could go wrong
The study was terminated early with only 47 participants, so results are limited. It is a small, early-stage trial, and the benefits seen may not hold up in larger studies.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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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Locations
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Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States