Using brain stimulation to improve thinking skills in people with mental health conditions
Official title: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Neuromodulation of Executive Function Across Neuropsychiatric Populations
Run by Massachusetts General Hospital · NCT04296604 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 2014 |
| Main results expected | April 2026 |
| Study ends | April 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 10, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04296604 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include male and female outpatients aged 18-65 with specific neuropsychiatric diagnoses as per DSM-5 criteria.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with contraindications to tDCS, active substance dependence, or those who are pregnant or nursing may not benefit from this study.
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 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.
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 gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with tDCS in improving cognitive functions in various populations, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.