Using brain stimulation to reduce alcohol cravings
Exploring the Effect of Trans-cranial Direct Current Stimulation on Craving and Serum BDNF of Patients With Alcohol Dependence
This study is testing whether a brain stimulation technique can help people with alcohol dependence feel less craving for alcohol.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Taipei City Hospital Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Taipei, Taipei CITY) |
| Trial ID | NCT05854693 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in reducing alcohol cravings among individuals diagnosed with alcohol dependence. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an active tDCS group or a sham group, with the aim of comparing the severity of cravings between the two. The study will involve 10 sessions of tDCS over two weeks, followed by a two-week follow-up period to assess changes in craving scores and their correlation with serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. The research builds on previous findings that suggest tDCS may help alleviate cravings without adverse effects.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 20-65 who have been diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
Not a fit: Patients with intellectual disabilities, severe mental health disorders, or major physical illnesses may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel non-pharmacological treatment option for individuals struggling with alcohol dependence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for tDCS in treating various conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Be between 20-65 years of age 2. have sufficient cognitive function to understand the study and complete the informed consent process 3. Be diagnosed with alcohol dependence as defined by DSM-IV through a structured interview (Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview, M.I.N.I.) Exclusion Criteria: 1. Intellectual disabilities 2. bipolar disorder 3. Psychosis (schizophrenia) 4. Major physical illness (brain hemorrhage, brain tumor, myocardial infarction, epilepsy or history of seizures) 5. intracorporeal electronic or metal implants (e.g., cardiac pacemaker) 6. Pregnant or breastfeeding women 7. Allergy to headgear and electrode materials 8. Trauma or infection to the head 9. Intracranial space occupied lesion (such as brain tumor, AVM, etc.) or patients who have undergone brain surgery, meningitis and encephalitis 10. Patients who are expected to undergo brain and major surgery during the trial period
Where this trial is running
Taipei, Taipei CITY
- Taipei City Hospital — Taipei, Taipei CITY, Taiwan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Hu-Ming Chang
- Email: DAU66@tpech.gov.tw
- Phone: 0978052951
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.