Identifying the best brain target for TMS to help smokers

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

This study aims to determine the most effective prefrontal-cingulate target for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to enhance reward processing in nicotine-dependent individuals. It employs a randomized controlled design with three sessions, where participants will undergo neuroimaging to identify optimal TMS targets and then receive either active or sham TMS. The study will also assess the impact of TMS on decision-making and craving levels using various tasks and questionnaires. Participants will be required to abstain from smoking for a short period before each session.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Nicotine dependent individuals (according to the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test nicotine dependence score).
2. Be between the ages of 18 and 55 years old.
3. Not received substance abuse treatment within the previous 30 days.
4. Be in stable mental and physical health.
5. If female, test non-pregnant.
6. No evidence of focal or diffuse brain lesion on MRI.
7. Be willing to provide informed consent.
8. Be able to comply with protocol requirements and likely to complete all study procedures.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Contraindication to MRI (e.g., presence of metal in the skull, orbits or intracranial cavity, claustrophobia).
2. Contraindication to rTMS (history of neurological disorder or seizure, increased intracranial pressure, brain surgery, or head trauma with loss of consciousness for \> 15 minutes, implanted electronic device, metal in the head, or pregnancy).
3. History of autoimmune, endocrine, viral, or vascular disorder affecting the brain.
4. History or MRI evidence of neurological disorder that would lead to local or diffuse brain lesions or significant physical impairment.
5. Life time history of mental disorders such as: Bipolar Affective disorder (BPAD), Schizophrenia, Post-traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD) or Dementia or Major Depression.
6. uninterruptable central nervous system medication

Where it's running

• Rutgers University - Newark
  Newark, New Jersey, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Travis E Lalta, PhD — Rutgers University
• Study coordinator: Travis E Baker, PhD
• Email: travis.e.baker@rutgers.edu
• Phone: 973-353-5485

Similar studies

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

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• How cooling ingredients and menthol change the feel of nicotine e-liquids for adult vapers

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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.