Using brain stimulation to reduce cravings and improve control in people with substance use disorders

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 project investigates the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to enhance inhibitory control and reduce cravings in individuals with substance use disorders, particularly focusing on alcohol use disorder. Participants aged 18 to 65 undergoing detoxification treatment will receive different tDCS protocols, including active and sham conditions, to determine the most effective settings for improving treatment outcomes. The study will assess cognitive performance through neuropsychological testing and EEG recordings to identify optimal stimulation parameters. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of standard detoxification treatments by integrating tDCS as an adjunctive therapy.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* main diagnosis: alcohol use disorder according to DSM-5
* patients of any gender aged 18 to 65
* normal vision or correctable visual impairment.
* sufficient ability to communicate verbally and in writing
* ability to give fully informed consent after reviewing thorough written information

Exclusion Criteria:

* withdrawal of consent
* severe internal, neurological, or psychiatric comorbidities (e.g., lifetime schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other severe mental disorders according to ICD-10 and DSM-5, such as severe depression or PTSD within the last 12 months).
* Exclusion criteria for an EEG/tDCS examination (e.g. metal implants in the head, epilepsy, etc.)
* severe withdrawal symptoms (CIWA-R \> 7)
* alcohol intoxication (breath alcohol concentration \> 0 ‰)
* Pharmacotherapy with psychoactive substances within the last 14 days (exceptions: clomethiazole or benzodiazepines used in withdrawal treatment, provided they were discontinued at least 3 days prior; antidepressants or anxiolytics taken at stable doses).
* drug or alcohol use within the last 7 days
* for women: pregnancy
* suicidal tendencies or danger to others

Where it's running

• Central Institute of Mental Health
  Mannheim, Germany Recruiting
• Psychiatrisches Zentrum Nordbaden (Psychiatric Center Nordbaden)
  Wiesloch, Germany Not yet recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Sabine Vollstädt-Klein, PhD
• Email: Sabine.Vollstaedt-Klein@zi-mannheim.de
• Phone: +4962117033912

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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.