NYU researchers find ultrasound may reduce schizophrenic delusions

Researchers at NYU Langone Health have identified a potential non-medicinal treatment for schizophrenia using transcranial ultrasound stimulation. The experimental technique involves directing focused sound waves into the globus pallidus interna, a deep brain region responsible for regulating movement, thinking, and emotions.

In a study involving 10 participants with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, a single 10-minute session resulted in an average reduction of 1.2 points on a 7-point clinical scale for delusions. Patients who received a placebo treatment showed no change in symptoms. Lead researcher Dr. Wei Qi noted that the results provide early evidence that the stimulation can safely ‘tune’ brain circuits linked to psychosis.

Reported side effects from the procedure were mild, including fatigue, headaches, and temporary increases in psychotic symptoms.