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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
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