Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for veterans with PTSD

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

Veterans with moderate-to-severe PTSD will receive ten 40-minute rTMS sessions delivered over 2–4 weeks while researchers measure clinical, neuroimaging, and inflammatory outcomes. Participants will undergo fMRI scans to examine changes in limbic system activity and will provide breath and blood samples to assess systemic inflammation. Motor threshold will be determined at screening to guide stimulation parameters, and standard safety exclusions apply. The study links symptom changes to brain activity and inflammatory markers to better understand how rTMS might help PTSD.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age between 19 and 70
* Eligible for VA healthcare
* Moderate to severe PTSD as determined by a total score of at least 25 on the CAPS within 7 days of randomization.
* Agree to have CAPS audio recorded.
* Ability to obtain a Motor Threshold using the TMS device during screening.
* If female with childbearing potential, use of acceptable method of birth control (i.e., use of contraceptives, abstinence).
* Able to read, understand, and sign the informed consent document.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant or lactating woman.
* MRI is contraindicated
* Current use of clozapine (any dose) or bupropion (more than 300mg per day).
* Cardiac pacemaker or implantable defibrillator.
* Presence of any metal object in the head, including cochlear implants, but excluding dental work in the mouth.
* Significant central nervous system disorder (stroke, brain mass, epilepsy).
* Seizure in past one year.
* Current psychosis or mania.
* Significant suicidal ideation.
* Unstable medical conditions.
* Current alcohol or substance use disorder (except nicotine) that interferes with the patient's ability to participate.
* CPT or PE for PTSD in the past 2 months.
* Changes in Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, or Venlafaxine in the past 2 months.
* Color blind
* Currently participating in other research studies.
* Aneurysm Clip
* Ocular foreign body (e.g., metal shavings)
* Any implanted device (pumps, infusion devices, etc.)
* Shrapnel injuries or metal fragments

Where it's running

• White River Junction VA Hospital
  White River Junction, Vermont, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Bradley Watts — US Department of Veterans Affairs
• Study coordinator: Bradley V Watts, MD, MPH
• Email: bradley.watts@va.gov
• Phone: 802-295-9363

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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.