Using brain stimulation to treat anorexia nervosa
The Efficiency of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa - a Randomised, Double-blind Clinical Trial
NA · Medical University of Lublin · NCT05814458
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help people with anorexia nervosa improve their mental health and nutrition over three weeks.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years to 25 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Medical University of Lublin (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Lublin) |
| Trial ID | NCT05814458 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on patients with anorexia nervosa over a three-week period. It is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial aimed at assessing improvements in mental state and nutritional rehabilitation. The study will evaluate psychological and biological factors, including cognitive function and biochemical markers, while ensuring the safety of this non-invasive neurostimulation method. The research team comprises experts from various fields, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of treatment progress.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents and young adults aged 13-25 who meet the DSM-5 criteria for anorexia nervosa and have a BMI of 17.5 or lower.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological diseases, significant psychiatric comorbidities, or contraindications to tDCS will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from anorexia nervosa.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel in the context of anorexia nervosa, previous studies have shown promise for tDCS in treating other psychiatric conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Signed written Informed Consent Form, * Patients aged 13-25 years old, * Meet the DSM-5 criteria for AN, * Body mass index (BMI) ≤ 17,5 kg/m2, * A willingness and motivation to follow the study protocol. Exclusion Criteria: * Not giving Informed, Written Consent * Diagnosis of neurological diseases, as epilepsy; * Contraindications to tDCS, ie. pacemakers, metal parts around the head; * Psychiatric comorbidities (except specific personality disorder) including mental retardation, organic brain dysfunction, or addiction (except nicotine and caffeine); * Pregnancy or pregnancy planning; * Changes in psychopharmacotherapy during hospitalization
Where this trial is running
Lublin
- Ist Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention — Lublin, Poland (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Zuzanna Rząd, MS
- Email: rzadzuzanna@gmail.com
- Phone: (+48) 517259754
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.
Conditions: Anorexia Nervosa, Brain stimulation, Eating disorders, Left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, Transcranial direct current stimulation