Theta-Burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Treatment-Resistant Auditory Hallucinations

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 trial uses theta-burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (TBS), a non-invasive brain stimulation method, to treat persistent auditory verbal hallucinations in adults with psychotic disorders. All participants receive active TBS sessions, delivered as 20 sessions over two weeks (two sessions per weekday). The study aims to see if TBS reduces hallucination severity, improves other symptoms such as mood and illness insight, and evaluates tolerability and side effects. There is no placebo or sham control in this protocol. Participants undergo baseline assessments and continuous monitoring throughout the treatment period to assess safety and symptom changes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults aged 18 years or older.
* Diagnosis of a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms.
* Presence of persistent auditory verbal hallucinations with persecutory content.
* Auditory verbal hallucinations s that have not responded to ≥2 antipsychotic trials, each lasting more than 6 weeks, with daily chlorpromazine-equivalent doses of ≥600 mg and ≥80% of doses taken.
* Stable pharmacological treatment for at least two months before enrollment.

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of epilepsy or seizures.
* Neurological disorders that may interfere with the study or increase the risks associated with transcranial magnetic stimulation.
* Substance use disorder within the previous six months.
* Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) within the previous six months.
* Any other contraindication to transcranial magnetic stimulation.

Where it's running

• Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal
  Montreal, Quebec, Canada Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Stéphane Potvin, PhD — Principal Investigator
• Study coordinator: Naomi White, Msc
• Email: naomi.white@umontreal.ca
• Phone: 514-887-3401

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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.