Using brain stimulation to reduce methamphetamine cravings in people living with HIV
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Methamphetamine Use Disorder in People Living With HIV
This study is testing whether two types of brain stimulation can help reduce methamphetamine cravings in people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Kentucky Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lexington, Kentucky) |
| Trial ID | NCT06830980 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of two types of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on methamphetamine cravings and brain activity in individuals living with HIV. Participants will undergo either intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS), or a sham treatment, with sessions conducted twice daily over four visits. Brain MRI scans will be performed before and after the treatment sessions to assess changes in brain activity. The goal is to determine which TMS approach is most effective in reducing cravings for methamphetamine.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 who are living with HIV and have a history of methamphetamine use disorder with current cravings.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, or schizophrenia may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel treatment option for reducing methamphetamine cravings in individuals living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies using TMS for substance use disorders have shown promise, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults in the age group 18-65 years * Able to read and understand English * Able to provide informed consent * Diagnosed with HIV * History of current or previous Methamphetamine Use Disorder * Endorse craving for methamphetamine * Demonstrate an attentional bias for methamphetamine Exclusion Criteria: * Traumatic brain injury * h/o seizure disorder * h/o or current diagnosis of schizophrenia * intracranial metal shrapnel * previous adverse effects with TMS * sub-threshold consistency while performing behavioral tasks * lack of attentional bias to methamphetamine cues * a positive pregnancy test for female participants * abnormal brain MRI
Where this trial is running
Lexington, Kentucky
- UK Department of Psychiatry — Lexington, Kentucky, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Gopalkumar Rakesh, MD — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Patricia Garth, CRC
- Email: psych_research@uky.edu, annette.garth@uky.edu
- Phone: 859-382-7611
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.