Internet-based behavior therapy for adults with Tourette syndrome

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 clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of Internet-delivered behavior therapy based on exposure with response prevention for adults diagnosed with Tourette syndrome or chronic tic disorder. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the therapy or general psychological support over a 10-week period. The primary outcome will measure tic severity using the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale, while secondary outcomes will assess related impairments, quality of life, and symptoms of depression. The study aims to determine both immediate and long-term effects of the therapy on tic severity and overall well-being.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

≥ 18 years of age.

Primary diagnosis of TS/CTD, according to criteria in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders 5th edition.

Provided digital informed consent.

Have a Total Tic Severity Score (TTS) of \>15, or \>10 for individuals with motor or vocal tics only, in the past week, as measured by the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS).

Being willing and able to follow the study procedures and participate in the 10-week treatment program.

Being fluent in Swedish.

Have regular access to a computer connected to the Internet, sufficient technical skills to use the treatment platform, as well as a mobile phone to receive text messages.

Exclusion Criteria:

Ongoing or planned psychological treatment for TS/CTD.

Previous BT for tics of a minimum of 8 sessions with a qualified therapist within 12 months prior to assessment.

Adjustment of medication for tics within the last two months prior to assessment.

Severe psychiatric comorbidities such as organic brain disorders, bipolar disorder, ongoing psychosis, anorexia nervosa or substance use disorders that can interfere with the treatment for TS/CTD.

Acute psychiatric problems such as severe depression or suicidal risk needing immediate psychiatric care.

Severe tics causing immediate risk to the participants themselves or to others and requiring urgent medical attention.

Where it's running

• Karolinska Institutet
  Stockholm, Sweden Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Ekaterina Ivanova, PhD — Karolinska Institutet
• Study coordinator: Ekaterina Ivanova, PhD
• Email: ekaterina.ivanova@ki.se
• Phone: 0046765807416

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.