Using accelerated dTMS to help with antipsychotic-related weight gain in schizophrenia
Official title: The Effects of Improving Antipsychotic-induced Weight Gain by Accelerated dTMS After Food Cue-induced Craving, A Double-Blind, Randomized, Sham-Controlled Clinical Trial.
Run by Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University · NCT07795554 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A randomized, sham-controlled trial tests whether accelerated dTMS can reduce weight gain caused by antipsychotic drugs in people with schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Changsha, Hunan) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | May 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07795554 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18-60 with DSM-5 schizophrenia who have gained about 7% body weight on antipsychotics within the past two years and are on a stable medication regimen.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals who require frequent changes to their antipsychotic regimen or have contraindications to MRI/TMS may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study examines whether accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation (ACC-iTBS) delivered via dTMS is safe and effective for reducing antipsychotic-induced weight gain. Participants with schizophrenia who have gained about 7% body weight within two years of antipsychotic treatment are randomized to active dTMS or sham, receiving three daily sessions for 10 days. Follow-ups occur at baseline, day 12, and day 42 after treatment to assess weight changes and other outcomes. The trial also aims to develop predictive models of response using radiomics and metabolomics to understand underlying mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience less weight gain and improved metabolic health linked to antipsychotic use.
How similar studies have gone: Prior studies suggest TMS can influence brain circuits related to appetite and weight, but results with dTMS for this purpose are exploratory and novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged between 18-60. * Meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia, confirmed by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5). * Gaining body weight around 7% after intaking antipsychotics within 2 years. * Participants were on a stable medication regimen at the time of enrollment. ●Written informed consent was obtained from both the participants and their legally authorized guardians. Exclusion Criteria: * Participants who switch antipsychotic drugs (APDs) or require a dose modification exceeding 25% of the baseline dosage during the study period. * Diagnosed with other mental diseases in accordance with DSM-V. * Comorbid with other severe physiological diseases. * Active suicidal ideation. * A history of alcohol or substance use disorder (or abuse). * Presence of metal implants or any other conditions contraindicated for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). * Presence of intracranial metal or electronic devices, a personal or family history of epilepsy, or any other standard contraindications to deep transcranial magnetic stimulation. * Receipt of regular transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), or weight-loss interventions within the past month. * Pregnant or lactating women
Where it's running
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The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University
Changsha, Hunan, China Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ping Shao
- Email: shp97jw@163.com
- Phone: +86-13755112445
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.