Zapping the brain to curb alcohol cravings: new trial underway

NCT ID NCT07472673

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: Shanghai Mental Health Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called transcranial temporal interference stimulation (tTIS) aimed at the amygdala, a brain region linked to cravings. Researchers will enroll 60 adults with alcohol use disorder to see if tTIS can reduce alcohol cravings and prevent relapse. The approach uses two pairs of electrodes on the scalp to create a low-frequency electric field deep in the brain without surgery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcranial temporal interference stimulation (tTIS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, non-drug way to reduce alcohol cravings and help prevent relapse in people with alcohol use disorder.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with only 60 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The technique is experimental and its long-term effects are unknown.

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.

alcohol abuse

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shanghai Mental Health Center

Shanghai, 200000, China

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.