Combining tDCS with cognitive training for people on buprenorphine for opioid use disorder
Official title: Combined tDCS and Cognitive Training as an Adjunctive Treatment in Opioid Use Disorder
Run by University of Minnesota · NCT07158853 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study will test whether adding mild brain stimulation (tDCS) combined with cognitive training helps people on buprenorphine for opioid use disorder reduce cravings and support recovery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 4, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07158853 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are currently on buprenorphine maintenance and able to consent and comply with study procedures are eligible.
✕Probably not a fit
People with contraindications to tDCS or MRI, a history of seizures or certain neurological injuries, or active psychotic disorders are excluded and unlikely to benefit from the intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Adults receiving buprenorphine maintenance for opioid use disorder will receive either active transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) paired with cognitive training or a sham stimulation paired with the same training. The intervention is delivered over multiple sessions while participants remain in their addiction treatment program. Outcomes will focus on clinical measures related to substance use, cognitive functioning, and retention in treatment. Participants with unstable psychotic disorders, certain neurological injuries, or contraindications to tDCS/MRI are excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a non-drug adjunct to buprenorphine that helps reduce cravings and improve recovery outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous small clinical and pilot studies combining neuromodulation or cognitive training in substance use disorders have shown mixed but sometimes promising results, while larger confirmatory trials remain limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ability to provide consent and comply with study procedures * Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for OUD * Undergoing medication treatment for OUD. Participants may have current comorbid drug use, but primary diagnosis must be OUD * Intention to remain in the study until intervention completion. Exclusion Criteria: * Any medical condition with neurological sequelae * Head injury resulting in skull fracture or loss of consciousness of \>30 minutes * Any tDCS or MRI contraindication (tDCS: history of seizures, metallic cranial plates/screws or implanted device, history of eczema on scalp. MRI: unapproved metallic implants, pacemakers or any other implanted electrical device, shrapnel, metallic braces, non-removable body piercings, pregnancy, breathing or movement disorder, or claustrophobia) * Any psychotic disorder (participants with other treated and stable psychiatric disorders will be included) * Presence of a condition that would render study measures impossible to administer or interpret * Age younger than 18 * Primary current substance use disorder on a substance other than opioids except for caffeine or nicotine * In treatment instead of jail * Pregnancy * Disrespectful behavior towards the investigators and staff.
Where it's running
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University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jazmin Camchong, PhD — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Calvin Cahill
- Email: cahil138@umn.edu
- Phone: 952-444-0137
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.