Left DLPFC rTMS vs iTBS for emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and NSSI in Borderline Personality 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

This randomized, double-blind study compares three groups: high-frequency rTMS, intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS), and sham stimulation, all targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Participants with Borderline Personality Disorder receive brain stimulation while continuing standard therapy, to see which approach best improves emotional regulation, impulsivity, and self-injury behaviors. Each session lasts about 21 minutes, with stimulation parameters defined (rTMS: 5 Hz, 1200 pulses, 80-110% RMT; iTBS: 50 Hz bursts, 600 pulses, 80-120% RMT). Outcomes will be compared to sham after the treatment course. The study is conducted at Ain Shams University Hospitals in Cairo, focusing on adults aged 21-50.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* 1\. Age range: 21-50 years old. 2. Gender: males and females 3. Borderline personality disorder diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria:

\- 1. Presence of other uncontrolled mental illness that precludes the ability to provide informed consent (e.g.; acute psychosis, bipolar disorder currently in manic episode, major depressive disorder with recent suicidal attempt).

2\. Patients with contraindications to TMS as cardiac patients with pacemakers, metallic implants as cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, stents, and deep brain stimulation electrodes.

Where it's running

• Ainshams University Hospitals
  Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: dina h abouelleil, Masters of neuropsychiatry
• Email: dinahussein@med.asu.edu.eg
• Phone: +201062229030

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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.