Understanding how brain stimulation affects attention and drinking behavior

A Combined Neurofeedback- TMS Intervention for Alcohol Use Disorder - Aim 2

Not applicable Interventional Auburn University · NCT05611502

This study is testing how brain stimulation affects attention and drinking habits in both regular and occasional drinkers.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAuburn University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Auburn, Alabama)
Trial IDNCT05611502 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the relationship between attention processes and alcohol consumption by utilizing transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Participants will undergo three visits, including an initial MRI scan and two sessions of TMS followed by additional MRI scans. The goal is to explore how attention modulation may influence drinking behaviors and emotional responses. Both regular drinkers and those who drink infrequently are invited to participate.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 19 or older from the Auburn/Opelika area who either drink alcohol regularly or infrequently.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for MRI or TMS, such as a history of seizures or certain medical conditions, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into how attention influences drinking behavior, potentially leading to new interventions for alcohol-related issues.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies utilizing TMS for cognitive and behavioral interventions have shown promise, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1\. Age 18 or Older

2A. (Drinker Group): Reports consuming 4 \[if female\]/ 5 \[if male\] or more standard drinks on one occasion at least 2 times a month AND/OR reports consuming more than 7 \[if female\]/ 14 \[if male\] standard drinks per week on average

2B. (Healthy Volunteer Group): Reports consuming 4 \[if female\]/ 5 \[if male\] or more standard drinks on one occasion less than once a month AND reports consuming less than 7 \[if female\]/ 14 \[if male\] standard drinks per week on average

Exclusion Criteria:

1. MRI Contraindications

   1. Presence of metal in the body that would make having a 7T MRI unsafe (including facial tattoos)
   2. Claustrophobia, such that individual would be unable to stay in the MRI for up to 1 hr
   3. Hearing loss, including tinnitus, that might be made worse by MRI or TMS
2. TMS Contraindications

   1. Has ever had a seizure, or has a family history of epilepsy
   2. Taking medications or substances that lower the seizure threshold\*
   3. Implanted devices that are in the head or rely on physiological signals
   4. History of neurological disease, such as stroke or brain tumor
   5. Head injury with loss of consciousness greater than 30 minutes
   6. Actively withdrawing from alcohol
3. Family history of schizophrenia or presence of psychotic symptoms

Where this trial is running

Auburn, Alabama

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Drinking, AlcoholalcoholattentionTMSbinge drinkingemotionsocial cognitionmoral
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.