High-Intensity Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation for Gambling Disorder

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

Researchers will randomize adults with gambling disorder to receive either high-intensity transcranial alternating current stimulation or sham treatment, with follow-up assessments at three months to examine changes in executive-control function. The study builds on a prior pilot finding that HI-tACS may modulate gamma-band brain activity linked to self-control. Outcomes will include measurements of executive-control performance and related brain activity to understand the mechanism. The trial is conducted at Shanghai Mental Health Center and aims to translate a neurostimulation approach into a potential new treatment option.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 18-60, male or female, with 9 or more years of education, and able to complete questionnaire evaluation and behavioral tests;
* Meet DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders，DSM) diagnostic criteria for gambling disorder;
* Have gambled for at least one year (at least once a week);
* Normal vision and hearing, or within the normal range after correction;
* Agree to cooperate in the follow-up evaluation;
* No metal implantation in the head, no history of nerve problems or head injury, and no skin sensitivity.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Have severe cognitive impairment, such as a history of head trauma, -cerebrovascular disease, epilepsy, etc.;
* Have used drugs promoting cognitive function in the last 6 months;
* Have impaired intelligence (Intelligence Quotient\<70);
* Abuse or dependence of psychoactive substances (except nicotine) in the last 5 years.

Where it's running

• Shanghai Mental Health Center
  Shanghai, China Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Jiang Du, MD, PhD.
• Email: dujiangdou@163.com
• Phone: +8602164906315

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.