Using brain scans and magnetic stimulation to help people quit opioids

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 research involves 80 participants with opioid use disorder who are beginning treatment with buprenorphine and aiming to quit opioids. The study aims to determine if an MRI brain marker can predict success in quitting opioids and whether repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) enhances the effectiveness of buprenorphine compared to a placebo. Participants will undergo MRI scans and receive either real or sham rTMS treatment over a period of 12 weeks, with weekly follow-ups to assess their progress.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 18 or older; all genders included.
2. Intellectual level sufficient to provide informed consent and accurately complete assessment instruments (English speaking/writing).
3. Meet DSM-5 criteria for moderate or severe OUD. Individuals may also meet criteria for another substance use disorder (with the exception of alcohol or sedative/hypnotic); but must identify opioids as their primary substance.
4. Starting buprenorphine and planning on opioid abstinence

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning on getting pregnant.
2. Alcohol or sedative/hypnotic use disorders (seizure risk).
3. History of/or current psychotic disorder (e.g. schizophrenia).
4. Current or lifetime bipolar disorder.
5. Unstable Axis-I condition requiring starting a new medication.
6. Active suicidal ideation / suicide attempt within 90 days.
7. History of/or current dementia or other cognitive impairment.
8. Contraindications to receiving rTMS or undergoing MRI (implanted ferromagnetic metal, history of or high risk of seizure, implanted device).
9. Unstable general medical conditions.

Where it's running

• Duke University
  Durham, North Carolina, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Gregory Sahlem — Duke University
• Study coordinator: Gregory Sahlem
• Email: quitopioids@duke.edu
• Phone: (984) 340-0761

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Personalized Addiction Treatment Enhancement for Opioid Use Disorder

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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.