Understanding how brain stimulation affects attention and drinking behavior

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 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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• Auburn University
  Auburn, Alabama, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Samantha J Fede, PhD — Principal Investigator
• Study coordinator: SCAMPI Lab
• Email: scampi@auburn.edu
• Phone: 334-521-2807

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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.