New PTSD Treatment Achieves 68 Percent Remission Rate in Clinical Trial, Researchers Report - Video

A personalised brain stimulation therapy has received clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), offering a new non-invasive treatment option. Clinical trial results reported by its developer suggest that the technology may significantly reduce PTSD symptoms, with 68% of patients achieving remission.

Developed by Wave Neuroscience in collaboration with researchers at the Texas A&M Health Institute of Biosciences and Technology, the treatment uses brain activity measurements to guide targeted magnetic stimulation.

The technology, known as Magnetic EEG-guided Resonance Therapy (MeRT), combines electroencephalography (EEG), which records electrical activity in the brain, with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Unlike conventional brain stimulation approaches, MeRT uses an artificial intelligence-assisted algorithm to personalise treatment based on each patient's brain activity patterns.

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop following traumatic experiences, including accidents, violence, disasters and military combat. Symptoms may include recurring distressing memories, anxiety, sleep disturbances and heightened emotional responses.

According to Wave Neuroscience, clinical trial participants experienced an average 52% reduction in PTSD symptom severity, while 68% achieved remission.

During treatment, patients received magnetic stimulation sessions five days a week over approximately five to six weeks. Researchers reported that improvements appeared to persist after treatment ended.

The system received FDA Breakthrough Device designation in 2024, followed by regulatory clearance in June 2026.

Researchers believe personalised stimulation could provide an additional option for patients who experience inadequate relief from medications or psychotherapy.

However, the reported remission and symptom-reduction figures are company-reported findings, and full results supporting these specific estimates require further independent evaluation.

The findings highlight the potential of personalised, brain activity-guided treatment to expand PTSD care, although continued research is needed to establish its long-term effectiveness and benefits across different patient groups.

REFERENCE: Texas A&M University. "Breakthrough PTSD treatment achieves 68% remission rate in clinical trial." ScienceDaily.