Using deep brain stimulation to help treat stimulant use disorder
Official title: Deep TMS Neuromodulation of Neural Circuits Associated with Stimulant Use Disorder
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11002135 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special treatment called deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) can help people with methamphetamine use disorder by targeting specific areas of the brain to reduce cravings and prevent relapse, and it involves 30 treatment sessions where you'll be monitored to see how it affects your brain and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,491,755 |
| NIH project number | 1UG3DA061616-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002135 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are seeking treatment for methamphetamine use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking treatment for stimulant use disorder or those with other unrelated mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) to target specific brain circuits associated with methamphetamine use disorder (MUD). Participants will undergo a series of 30 treatment sessions aimed at stimulating the insula and prefrontal cortex, which are critical areas in the brain related to addiction and relapse. The study will assess the effectiveness of this treatment in reducing relapse rates and improving overall treatment outcomes through neuroimaging and behavioral assessments. Patients will be closely monitored throughout the treatment process to evaluate changes in their neural activity and behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals struggling with stimulant use disorders, potentially reducing relapse rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with neuromodulation techniques like dTMS in treating various forms of addiction, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Padula, Claudia B. — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Padula, Claudia B.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.