Using brain stimulation to reduce intrusive memories in PTSD
Characterization and Modulation of Traumatic Memories in PTSD Patients Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
This study is testing if brain stimulation can help adults with PTSD reduce unwanted memories and improve their overall symptoms.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Tel Aviv University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tel Aviv) |
| Trial ID | NCT06639061 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of non-invasive neuromodulation targeting the hippocampus to alleviate intrusive memory symptoms in adults with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Participants will undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to personalize their neuromodulation treatment and to assess changes in brain function. The study compares the effects of targeted hippocampal stimulation with a control stimulation in a non-memory-related area, focusing on the frequency and emotional severity of intrusive memories and overall PTSD severity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 20-65 with a diagnosis of PTSD experiencing frequent intrusive memories.
Not a fit: Patients with complex PTSD, personality disorders, or those on certain psychiatric medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce intrusive memories and improve overall PTSD symptoms for affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with neuromodulation techniques targeting memory-related brain areas, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged of 20-65 years. * Meet a diagnosis of PTSD according to DSM-5 as tested by a structured clinical interview (Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 - CAPS-5). * CAPS-5 total score greater or equal to 33. * Endorsement of intrusive symptoms (flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories) with a frequency of at least 3 times a week. * Meeting the accepted criteria for inclusion in an MRI examination. Exclusion Criteria: * Meeting a diagnosis of Complex PTSD or personality disorder. * Psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or a developmental neuropsychological disorder (autism, mental retardation). * Use of psychiatric medications (except for the medications listed in section 4.a of the study protocol if the medication dosage is stable in the last three months and does not change during the study. * Exclusion rules in TMS research (see guidelines). * Use of the following drugs: imipramine, amitriptyline, doxepin, nortriptyline, maprotiline, chlorpromazine, clozapine, foscarnet, ganciclovir, ritonavir, amphetamines, cocaine, (MDMA, ecstasy), phencyclidine (PCP, angel's dust), ketamine, gamma- hydroxybutyrate (GHB), alcohol, theophylline * Epilepsy or use of anti-epileptic drugs. * Traumatic head injuries or head surgery. * Implanted metallic body (except fillings/amalgam bites/orthodontic fixations approved for MRI), electrodes or a pacemaker. * Migraines * Pregnant women * Hearing problems * Drinking alcohol 24 hours before the TMS session * Repeated episodes of fainting with loss of consciousness and/or an event of fainting with loss of consciousness in the past year. * The accepted exclusion criteria for an MRI examination
Where this trial is running
Tel Aviv
- Tel Aviv University — Tel Aviv, Israel (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yair Bar-Haim, PhD — Tel Aviv University
- Study coordinator: Yair Bar-Haim, PhD
- Email: yair1@tauex.tau.ac.il
- Phone: 972-3-6405465
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.