Combining brain stimulation and cognitive training for alcohol use disorder
Tdcs And cogNitive traininG cOmbined for AUD (TANGO)
NA · University of Minnesota · NCT05062369
This study is testing if combining brain stimulation with thinking exercises can help people with alcohol use disorder stay sober longer.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT05062369 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to develop new treatments for alcohol use disorder (AUD) by combining transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with cognitive training focused on executive functioning. The study will investigate whether stimulating the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) alongside cognitive exercises can enhance treatment outcomes and support long-term abstinence from alcohol. By exploring individual differences in genetic and epigenetic factors, the research seeks to tailor interventions for better efficacy. The ultimate goal is to create effective therapeutic strategies that reduce the likelihood of relapse in individuals with AUD.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who are currently abstinent and committed to completing the intervention.
Not a fit: Patients with severe neurological conditions, primary psychotic disorders, or contraindications for tDCS may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve treatment outcomes and support long-term recovery for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While the combination of tDCS and cognitive training is a novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using tDCS for various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders diagnostic criteria for AUD * Abstinent from alcohol use * Must have the intention to remain in the Lodging Plus program until the end of the intervention portion of the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Any medical condition or treatment with neurological sequelae (i.e. stroke, tumor, loss of consciousness\>30 min, HIV) * A head injury resulting in a skull fracture or a loss of consciousness exceeding 30 minutes (i.e., moderate or severe TBI) * Any contraindications for tDCS or MRI scanning (tDCS contraindication: history of seizures; MRI contraindications; metal implants, pacemakers or any other implanted electrical device, injury with metal, braces, dental implants, non-removable body piercings, pregnancy, breathing or moving disorder) * Any primary psychotic disorder (e.g. schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); Participants with other treated and stable psychiatric disorders will be included * Presence of a condition that would render study measures difficult or impossible to administer or interpret * Primary current substance use disorder diagnosis on a substance other than alcohol except for caffeine or nicotine * Clinical evidence for Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome * Left-handedness * Entrance to the treatment program under a court mandate
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jazmin Camchong, PhD — Univeristy of Minnesota Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences
- Study coordinator: Jazmin Camchong, PhD
- Email: camch002@umn.edu
- Phone: (612) 842-8704
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Alcohol Use Disorder, Addiction