Using TMS and body image therapy to treat anorexia nervosa

TMS Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa: Effects on Body Image Processing and Clinical Outcome Measures

Not applicable Interventional Region Östergötland · NCT04213820

This study is testing if combining a brain treatment called TMS with body image therapy can help people with anorexia nervosa feel better and recover more effectively than standard treatments.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexFemale
SponsorRegion Östergötland Academic / other
Locations1 site (Linköping)
Trial IDNCT04213820 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) combined with a body image intervention for treating anorexia nervosa, comparing it to standard treatment approaches. Participants will be patients enrolled at the eating disorder unit of a psychiatric clinic in Linköping, who meet specific eligibility criteria including a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa and a BMI of 20 or under. The study aims to determine if this combined approach can lead to better outcomes in body image perception and overall recovery from anorexia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and over with a DSM-5 diagnosis of anorexia nervosa or atypical anorexia and a BMI of 20 or under.

Not a fit: Patients with severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or those currently on certain psychotropic medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve recovery rates and body image perception in patients with anorexia nervosa.

How similar studies have performed: While the combination of TMS and body image interventions is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in using TMS for various mental health conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Being enrolled as a patient at the eating disorder unit of the Child and adolescent psychiatric clinic and Psychiatric clinic in Linköping
* Having a DSM-5 diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, atypical anorexia (restrictive type)
* Being at least 18 years of age
* Having a BMI of 20 or under.
* Being free of psychotropic medications or on stable (at least three months on the same dose) medication.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia or psychotic disorder
* Clinical diagnosis of bipolar disorder
* Alcohol/drug dependence
* Ongoing treatment with antipsychotics or tricyclic antidepressants
* Previous severe head injury
* Birth before 33 weeks of gestation
* Hearing impairment
* Earlier epilepsy or seizures of other causes
* Having severe claustrophobia
* Being pregnant
* Having a cognitive disability

Where this trial is running

Linköping

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Anorexia Nervosa
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.