Using brain stimulation to treat methamphetamine addiction

Exploration of the Intervention Mechanism and Efficacy of Paired-pulse rTMS Treatment for Methamphetamine Use Disorder Based on the mPFC-Cerebellum

This study is testing if a new brain stimulation treatment can help people with methamphetamine addiction feel less cravings and improve their thinking while they are on methadone.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 70 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 60 Years
• Sex: Male
• Sponsor: Shanghai Mental Health Center (other)
• Locations: 1 site (Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality)
• Trial ID: NCT06457230 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates a novel approach using paired-pulse repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) targeting the frontopolar cortex and cerebellum to treat individuals with methamphetamine use disorder. The intervention aims to enhance functional connectivity in the brain, potentially reducing cravings and improving cognitive flexibility in patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment. Participants will receive rTMS sessions designed to optimize their treatment and management of addiction, with a focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms of this intervention. The study will also assess the efficacy of this approach in reducing relapse rates among users.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 60 with a history of methamphetamine use for at least one year and currently on methadone maintenance treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairments, other substance dependencies, or severe mental illnesses may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve outcomes for patients struggling with methamphetamine addiction by reducing cravings and relapse rates.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of paired-pulse rTMS is novel, similar studies using rTMS for addiction treatment have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria

1. Primary substance of abuse is methamphetamine.
2. Meets the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for severe methamphetamine use disorder (≥6 symptoms present within the past year).
3. Age: 18-60 years.
4. Education level of primary school or above, with the ability to comprehend questionnaires and behavioral tasks.
5. Normal vision and hearing; right-handed.
6. No prior participation in any TMS-related intervention therapy.

Exclusion Criteria

1. Presence of any metallic implants (e.g., dental prostheses, orthodontic braces, bone fixation plates, aneurysm clips, intrauterine devices) or implanted medical devices such as cardiac pacemakers or neurostimulators.
2. Chronic or severe somatic diseases (e.g., cardiac conditions, uncontrolled hypertension, physical disabilities).
3. Comorbid psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders).

Where this trial is running

Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality

• Min Zhao, PhD — Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Min Zhao, PhD

Conditions: Methamphetamine Use Disorder, Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, Cerebellum, Frontopolar cortex, Methamphetamine, Cortico-Cortical Paired Associative Stimulation