Combining brain stimulation and cognitive training to improve decision-making and impulse control
The Use of Combined Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Cognitive Training to Modulate Decision-making in Healthy People
NA · Queen's University · NCT03886025
This study is testing if combining brain stimulation with cognitive training can help young adults make better decisions and control their impulses.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Queen's University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Kingston, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT03886025 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of combined anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and cognitive training on decision-making and impulse control in healthy volunteers aged 18 to 40. Participants will undergo either active or sham tDCS while performing the Iowa Gambling Task, which assesses decision-making under uncertainty. The study aims to determine if the combined intervention leads to more advantageous decisions and better impulse control compared to the sham treatment. Additionally, the research will explore whether these effects can be generalized to other cognitive tasks related to motor impulsivity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy volunteers aged between 18 and 40.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy, neurological conditions, significant head injuries, or a history of substance misuse or major mental disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance decision-making and impulse control, potentially benefiting individuals with impulsivity-related issues.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on the combined effects of tDCS and cognitive training, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing cognitive functions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Consenting volunteers aged between 18 and 40. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals with epilepsy, other neurological conditions and history of significant head injury will be excluded. * Individuals with a history of substance misuse, major mental disorder and those receiving psychotropic medication will be also excluded.
Where this trial is running
Kingston, Ontario
- Queen's University — Kingston, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Najat Khalifa, MD — Queen's University - Canada
- Study coordinator: Najat Khalifa, MD, FRCPC
- Email: nrk2@queensu.ca
- Phone: 6135444900
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: Impulsivity, Decision Making, transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, Decision-making, Implusivity, Brain stimulation