Exploring brain stimulation to reduce PTSD symptoms
A Mechanistic Trial of the Neurobiology of Extinction Learning and Intraparietal Sulcus Stimulation
NA · University of Pennsylvania · NCT06234969
This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation can help reduce symptoms of arousal in people with PTSD during therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT06234969 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effects of continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) applied to the intraparietal sulcus (IPS) on arousal symptoms in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aims to demonstrate that cTBS can significantly reduce arousal, improve retention of extinction learning, and interact positively with extinction training. Participants will be compared between those receiving active cTBS and those receiving a sham treatment to assess the efficacy of this neuromodulation approach. The trial seeks to address the challenges faced by PTSD patients during exposure therapy by modulating their arousal levels.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-60 who meet the DSM-5 criteria for PTSD and do not have any contraindications for brain stimulation.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as seizure disorders, pregnancy, or significant hearing loss may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel treatment option for patients with PTSD, enhancing their ability to engage in exposure therapy.
How similar studies have performed: While this specific approach is novel, previous studies have shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques for treating PTSD and related conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adult aged 18-60 * Meets Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria for PTSD according to the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 * No metal implants Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Seizure disorder or epilepsy * Increased risk of seizure * Non-English speaking * Any medical condition that increases risk for fMRI or cTBS * Medical implant * Hearing loss sufficient to interfere with startle * Claustrophobia * Recent medication or therapy changes (in the past 8 weeks) * Current severe substance use disorder
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety, University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Lily A Brown, PhD — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Lily A Brown, PhD
- Email: lilybr@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: 2157463346
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: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder