Scientists Test Ultrasound to Treat Hallucinations in People with Schizophrenia

The scientists are using low-intensity focused ultrasound to target a deep region of the brain associated with the development of these symptoms.

According to the research team, more than 70% of people with schizophrenia experience auditory hallucinations, and in approximately 40% of patients, these symptoms persist even when they are taking antipsychotic medication.

The study plans to enroll up to 12 participants. Each will undergo five consecutive daily sessions of active ultrasound treatment and five control procedures during which the ultrasound will not be focused on a specific brain region. The researchers will assess the method's safety, the severity of hallucinations and possible changes in connections between different brain regions.

Preliminary observations have already shown promising results: participants reported that the voices became quieter or temporarily disappeared after repeated procedures. However, it remains unclear how long the effects will last. An earlier study found that a single session could reduce hallucinations, but the improvement was temporary.

The new method is non-invasive and involves the use of a wearable device. The targeted area is the caudate nucleus, a deep brain structure that researchers believe may play a role in the development of hallucinations.

The trial is funded by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. The researchers emphasize that the work is still at an early stage and does not yet allow conclusions to be drawn about the method's effectiveness in a broader patient population.