Using brain stimulation and training to reduce compulsive behaviors
Experimental Manipulation of OFC Function and Behavioral Context: Towards an Integrative Translational Model of Compulsive Behaviors
NA · University of Pittsburgh · NCT04580043
This study is testing if using brain stimulation along with practice tasks can help reduce compulsive behaviors in people with conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT04580043 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to understand the neural mechanisms behind compulsive behaviors by using non-invasive brain stimulation combined with a computer task practice. Participants will undergo transcranial magnetic stimulation to modulate activity in specific brain regions while engaging in habit override training. The study will measure the effects of these interventions on compulsive behaviors and related outcomes, potentially leading to more effective treatments for conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 60 who experience problematic compulsive behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients with significant medical contraindications or those who do not reside in the Pittsburgh area for the required duration may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel treatment option for individuals struggling with compulsive behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of techniques used in this study may be novel, similar approaches in brain stimulation have shown promise in treating various mental health conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Participants will: 1. Be between the ages of 18 and 60 years 2. Endorse problematic compulsive behaviors, per self-report and clinician-administered measures. 3. Agree to video taping of structured clinical interview 4. Report that they will reside in the Pittsburgh area for at least 5 weeks Exclusion Criteria: 1. Failure to meet standard MRI inclusion criteria: those who endorse claustrophobia, those who have cardiac pacemakers, neural pacemakers, surgical clips in the brain or blood vessels, surgically implanted metal plates, screws or pins, cochlear implants, implanted uterine devices, metal braces, or other metal objects in their body, especially in the eye. Dental fillings do not present a problem. Plastic or removable dental appliances do not require exclusion. History of significant injury or surgery to the brain or spinal cord that would impair interpretation of results. Pregnancy, determined by pregnancy tests on females. 2. Medical contraindications for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): 1. Presence of a neurologic disorder or medication therapy known to alter seizure threshold (e.g., stroke, aneurysm, brain surgery, structural brain lesion, brain injury, frequent/severe headaches) 2. Recurrent seizures or epilepsy in participant or family history of hereditary epilepsy 3. Pregnancy 4. Metallic implants in body or other devices that may be affected by magnetic field 5. Significant heart disease or cerebrovascular disease 6. Medications with strong seizure threshold lowering potential or which may interfere with the efficacy of TMS (e.g., clozapine, stimulants) 3. Acute suicidality or other psychiatric crises requiring treatment escalation 4. Changes made to treatment regimen within 4 weeks of baseline assessment 5. Reading level \<6th grade as per participant self-report 6. Presence of bipolar, psychotic, autism spectrum, or substance use disorder (i.e. current problematic use of mood altering drugs such as cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and barbiturates) 7. Presence of movement disorder or tics affecting manual responses 8. Inability to read text from 2 feet away (corrective lenses allowed)
Where this trial is running
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Rebecca B Price, PhD — University of Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Rebecca Price, PhD
- Email: canlab@pitt.edu
- Phone: 4126486445
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Compulsive Behavior, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder