New Treatments & Clinical Trials for Concussion

Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that temporarily disrupts normal brain function. Most people recover within days to weeks, but some experience symptoms that last months or longer. Treatment focuses on rest, gradual return to activity, and managing specific symptoms like headache or sleep problems.

What's actually going on in research

Trials are testing medications to speed recovery and reduce persistent symptoms, studying blood tests and imaging that might predict who will have prolonged symptoms, and exploring therapies for post-concussion syndrome. Researchers are also studying repeated concussions in athletes and military personnel to understand long-term brain effects.

What to know before you search

Eligibility often depends on time since injury, symptom severity, whether this is a first or repeated concussion, and age.

What types of trials are currently open

• Treatment trials — Testing medications or supplements to speed recovery or reduce symptom severity in the first weeks after concussion.
• Post-concussion syndrome trials — Testing treatments for people whose symptoms persist beyond three months, including drugs, cognitive therapy, and vestibular rehabilitation.
• Biomarker studies — Collecting blood samples and brain scans to identify markers that can diagnose concussion or predict who will have prolonged recovery.
• Rehabilitation trials — Testing exercise protocols, cognitive training, and physical therapy approaches to help people return to work, school, and sports safely.
• Long-term outcome studies — Following people with single or multiple concussions over years to understand risks of depression, dementia, and other brain conditions.