Brain zapping with light: a new hope for attention problems?

NCT ID NCT05802680

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Francisco Gonzalez-Lima, PhD Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This trial tests whether shining a specific type of near-infrared light on the forehead—called transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM)—can improve attention and reduce impulsivity in adults with and without ADHD. Participants receive either active tPBM or a sham (fake) treatment for 8 minutes, then take a computer-based attention test. The study aims to see if this safe, non-invasive method can boost brain activity in areas linked to focus.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) using near-infrared light
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a drug-free way to improve attention in people with ADHD or attention difficulties.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with a single session of treatment, so any effects may be short-lived or not translate to real-world benefits. The sham control helps, but results may not generalize.

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.

attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, inattentive type attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder Cognition Disorders cognitive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER ATTENTION DIFFICULTIES ATTENTION-DEFICIT COGNITIVE DEFICIT WELLNESS

Contacts and locations

Locations

The University of Texas at Austin
RECRUITING

Austin, Texas, 78712, United States

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