Sound waves to treat severe anxiety that hasn't improved with medication

Plain-English translation of NCT04557891 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated February 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Pulsation (LIFUP), a new device that uses sound waves to stimulate a specific part of your brain involved in anxiety. The device targets an area called the amygdala, which plays a key role in how we experience fear and worry. Researchers want to see if this treatment can help people whose anxiety hasn't gotten better despite trying multiple medications.

Current anxiety treatments—like therapy and medication—don't work for everyone. Some people try multiple medications without relief, and doctors need new options. This treatment is designed to reach deep areas of the brain that other techniques cannot, offering hope to people who haven't benefited from standard approaches.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 65 years old
you have been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (moderate or severe) for at least one year
you have tried at least 2 different SSRI medications and 1 additional medication without adequate improvement
you are medically stable and able to follow the study schedule
you have normal or corrected vision and hearing

You likely don't qualify if…

you have a primary anxiety diagnosis other than generalized anxiety disorder
you are currently using unprescribed psychoactive drugs or medications
you cannot safely enter an MRI machine
you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study
you are starting a new anxiety medication at the time you would enroll

What participation looks like

You would visit the research clinic for four treatment sessions over several weeks. During each session, the ultrasound device would be placed against your head and activated for about 5 minutes to deliver focused sound waves to your brain—you wouldn't feel pain or hear any sound. Before and after treatment, you'd complete questionnaires and possibly have brain imaging scans. The team would then check in with you one week and one month after your final session to see how you're doing.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 5, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(3 sites)

United States

University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California

Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts

Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina