Using brain stimulation to improve thinking skills in people with mental health conditions
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Neuromodulation of Executive Function Across Neuropsychiatric Populations
NA · Massachusetts General Hospital · NCT04296604
This study is testing if a brain stimulation treatment can help improve thinking skills in people with mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT04296604 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on enhancing executive function in individuals with various neuropsychiatric disorders, including traumatic brain injury, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Participants will receive tDCS treatment, and their cognitive improvements will be assessed compared to a cohort of healthy controls. The study aims to provide insights into the potential of tDCS as a therapeutic intervention for cognitive deficits associated with these conditions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include male and female outpatients aged 18-65 with specific neuropsychiatric diagnoses as per DSM-5 criteria.
Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to tDCS, active substance dependence, or those who are pregnant or nursing may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved cognitive functioning and quality of life for patients with neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with tDCS in improving cognitive functions in various populations, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria 1. Male and female outpatients 18-65 years of age 2. A diagnosis of traumatic brain injury, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, borderline personality disorder and substance use disorders meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria. Exclusion Criteria 1. Contraindication to tDCS: history or epilepsy, metallic implants in the head and neck, brain stimulators, vagus nerve stimulators, shunts, pacemakers, pregnancy. 2. Active substance dependence (except for tobacco and cannabis). 3. Pregnant or nursing females. 4. Inability to participate in testing procedures. 5. Additional exclusion criteria for healthy controls: 1. Diagnosis of psychiatric of neurological disorder 2. Ongoing treatment with any psychotropic medications.
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Joan Camprodon, MD, PhD, MPH — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Joan Camprodon, MD, PhD, MPH
- Phone: 6177265348
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: Traumatic Brain Injury, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance Use Disorders, Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation