Evaluating brain stimulation for methamphetamine use disorders

The Exploration of Novel Cross-frequency Protocol of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation in the Treatment of Methamphetamine Use Disorder: A Randomized Sham-controlled Study

Not applicable Interventional Shanghai Mental Health Center · NCT06145698

This study is testing if a special type of brain stimulation can help people with methamphetamine use disorders by reducing cravings and improving brain function.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment32 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 59 Years
SexAll
SponsorShanghai Mental Health Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Wuhan)
Trial IDNCT06145698 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to assess the effectiveness of theta-gamma cross-frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) in patients with methamphetamine use disorders. The study will involve multiple sessions of stimulation, comparing the effects of active tACS against a sham treatment. Participants will undergo electroencephalography (EEG) assessments before and after each session to measure changes in brain activity related to cognitive functions and craving responses. The goal is to provide causal evidence linking brain oscillatory activity to addiction-related behaviors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with methamphetamine use disorders who have not used the drug for at least three months.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments due to other medical conditions or those currently using other substances may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could improve cognitive function and reduce cravings in patients with methamphetamine use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, previous studies have shown promising results with brain stimulation techniques in addiction treatment, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. In accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 (DSM-5) for methamphetamine (MA) use disorders
2. Normal vision and hearing
3. Dextromanual
4. Use MA not less than 1 year, and the last of MA use no less than 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Have a disease that affects cognitive function such as a history of head injury, cerebrovascular disease, epilepsy, etc
2. Have cognitive-promoting drugs in the last 6 months
3. Other substance abuse or dependence in recent five years (except nicotine)
4. Meet the DSM-5 criteria for other mental disorders
5. Physical disease

Where this trial is running

Wuhan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Amphetamine-Related Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.